What Happened

What Happened

• Incident Location: A car—believed to be a Kia Soul—was found flipped upside down in the parking lot of a Firestone Complete Auto Care at 3507 Poplar Avenue in East Memphis, near the University area kwtx.com+2wreg.com+2wreg.com+2.

• Initial Observations: FOX13 reports indicate the vehicle may have been stolen, according to unnamed sources on site following the crash .

🔍 Investigation Details

• Memphis Police Department (MPD) prompted a response after the vehicle was discovered overturned. Investigators are treating the crash as a potential recovered stolen vehicle incident .

• Evidence Collection: Authorities are likely reviewing surveillance footage from Firestone and surrounding businesses, collecting witness statements, and inspecting the vehicle for any signs of tampering or theft indicators.

🔐 Context: Kia Thefts in Memphis

This incident aligns with a notable rise in Kia thefts across Memphis in recent years:

• MPD has reported a dramatic increase—up to 1,000% year-over-year—in stolen Kias, with many thefts involving models like the Kia Soul actionnews5.com+2fox13memphis.com+2wreg.com+2wreg.com+15localmemphis.com+15fox13memphis.com+15.

• Thieves have exploited a known security vulnerability in certain Kia models lacking a proper engine immobilizer, using techniques such as USB chargers to hotwire the ignition system .

• In response, Kia partnered with local dealerships, and MPD has distributed free steering wheel locks to prevent thefts in the community localmemphis.com+2actionnews5.com+2localmemphis.com+2.

🛠️ What MPD Will Likely Do Next

1. Vehicle Ownership Check: Confirm whether the flipped Kia Soul was reported stolen through DMV and MPD databases.

2. Crash Reconstruction: Analyze the rollover dynamics—speed, collision impact, and likely points of entry/exit.

3. Source Review: Investigate how the car ended up on-site: whether the theft occurred at that location or the vehicle was brought there after being stolen elsewhere.

4. Potential Arrests: If suspects are identified (via video surveillance or license plate recognition), MPD may make arrests once individuals are located and questioned.

🚨 Public Safety Advisory

• Witnesses urged to come forward: Anyone who saw the car arriving at Firestone, the rollover, or people fleeing the scene is encouraged to contact MPD.

• East Memphis drivers—especially owners of older Kia/Hyundai models—are urged to:

  • Use steering wheel locks or immobilizers.

  • Avoid leaving vehicles unattended, especially in dimly-lit areas.

  • Be alert for suspicious behavior around cars, like tampering or idling without explanation.