Burlington Area Kia / Hyundai Vehicles Are Being Stolen As Part of Social Media Challenge
From the South Burlington Police
In the month of July 2025, South Burlington Police have received numerous complaints of stolen vehicles from the area. Most of the vehicles stolen are from the area of Shelburne Road and are believed to be part of the Kia Challenge. South Burlington Police have also recovered several stolen vehicles from other jurisdictions, also believed to be part of the Kia Challenge.
The Kia Challenge is a social media trend where offenders, usually juveniles, steal or attempt to steal Kia and Hyundai vehicles. These vehicles are commonly driven for short periods of time and in a reckless manner.
Some of the stolen vehicles reported to South Burlington Police were suspected of being intentionally crashed causing significant damage to the cars and to private property.
For example, on 07/15/25 a stolen vehicle was found abandoned on a South Burlington pedestrian path after it was used to damage an athletic equipment and a soccer field.
Such offenses are especially concerning as they impact both the car owner and the community who utilizes these public spaces.
In addition to stolen vehicles, officers have taken additional complaints of damaged vehicles. This includes broken door handles, smashed car windows and broken steering columns. It is believed these are failed attempts to steal vehicles in the area.
Kia and Hyundai owners are encouraged to speak with dealerships to see what theft protection upgrades are currently available. Additionally, we encourage owners to take additional prevention measures to include parking cars in secure areas or well-lit parking lots and installing aftermarket anti-theft devices.
South Burlington Police are also seeking anyone with information related to the suspects in these thefts.
If anyone has information related to these crimes, we ask they contact South Burlington Police at 802-846-4111 or their local law enforcement agency.