WHAT: AAA Texas will hold a media availability to share details of a free catalytic converter etching event over three days (Oct. 25, 26 and 27) at nine facilities to raise awareness about the alarming rise in catalytic converter thefts in the Houston area. Appointments for free etchings are required and can be found here.
VISUALS:
Etching of catalytic converter underneath vehicle in repair shop
Video of missing catalytic converters
WHO:
Texas State Representative Gene Wu
Houston City Council Member Tiffany Thomas
Harris County Sheriff Auto Theft Task Force Sgt. Eduardo Rivera
AAA Texas Approved Auto Repair Manager Dave Skaien
WHEN:
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM, Tuesday, October 25
(Scheduled early morning live interviews with AAA available.)
WHERE:
Christian Brothers Automotive – Galleria
7937 Westheimer Rd.
Houston, TX 77063
WHY:
New data shows Harris County continues to lead the state in catalytic converter thefts, according to AAA Texas Insurance claims statistics. As of September, AAA Texas catalytic converter insurance claims have skyrocketed 55% from last year and accounts for one third of claims made in Texas. To help deter thieves from stealing converters, as well as help law enforcement with investigations, AAA Texas encourages drivers to have their vehicle’s catalytic converter(s) spray painted with high-visibility, high-temperature paint and then etched with their license plate number. Additionally, while the number of free etchings are limited, AAA.com/autorepair has a new feature which will allow anyone to find facilities to see if they offer catalytic converter etchings included with a paid service.