Bradenton Police Warn Public After Spike in Guns Stolen from Unlocked Cars

BRADENTON, Fla. – Bradenton police are renewing their plea for residents to lock their vehicles and remove firearms after a sharp increase in guns stolen from cars—some of which have now been linked to violent crimes.

According to department data, 19 firearms were reported stolen from vehicles in 2023. That number nearly doubled in 2024, with 37 reported cases. Already in 2025, six guns have been stolen, most from cars left unlocked.

The warning follows a recent tragedy at Rossi Park, where three people were shot over the weekend. Among the victims was 21-year-old Wilfredo Allende Jr., who died at the scene. Police have confirmed that one of the guns used in the shooting was reported stolen from a car in Bradenton last year.

Investigators believe Allende was not the intended target and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Two teenagers, ages 17 and 18, have been charged with murder in connection with the incident.

Bradenton police say the Rossi Park shooting is a devastating example of the consequences of unsecured firearms. Authorities are urging gun owners not only to secure their weapons and lock their vehicles but also to promptly report any thefts to law enforcement.

Officials hope that by highlighting this case, more residents will take steps to prevent stolen firearms from ending up in the wrong hands.