String of car break-ins in Athens

ATHENS, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - There were terrifying moments for a young woman who tried to fight off a robber this weekend.

Athens-Clarke County Police urge residents to lock their vehicles following a rash of car break-ins.

Police have reports of more than 30 entering auto cases within just the past week.

Officers said thieves have targeted apartment complexes and other high-density areas.

Investigators said the crooks are “car-hopping” -- popping the handles on car doors and rummaging through unlocked vehicles for firearms and other items.

Police also remind motorists to remove valuables from their vehicles and if a car's equipped with an alarm system to turn it on whenever the vehicle's parked.