Students in Joliet, Illinois, were forced to stay home on Monday and Tuesday after thieves stole catalytic converters from a majority of the district’s school buses, leaving them unable to operate. The Troy Community Consolidated School District 30-C declared an emergency e-learning day as repairs are underway.
The theft, which authorities are calling a major criminal operation, is just the latest in a surge of catalytic converter thefts nationwide.
Thieves Strike at Night, Disabling Over 80% of Buses
The theft occurred early Monday morning at the district’s transportation lot on 5800 Theodore Street. According to the Joliet Police Department, between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., thieves targeted the buses and cut off catalytic converters from 30 of the district’s vehicles—crippling more than 80% of the fleet.
Without the buses, the district had no way to transport students to and from school, prompting officials to announce virtual learning. Superintendent Dr Mark Griglione explained, “Due to the unforeseen emergency affecting nearly all of our buses, all Troy 30-C schools must transition to an emergency e-learning day.”
Ongoing Investigation and Search for Suspects
Police are actively investigating the theft and have identified a dark-coloured SUV as the suspect vehicle. The vehicle was last seen near Riviera Boulevard and Leonard Drive shortly after 3 a.m. The Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force is leading the investigation and is asking for public assistance.
Authorities are urging anyone with surveillance footage or information to come forward. Tips can be provided by contacting the Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force at 815-724-4677 or by emailing [email protected]. Anonymous tips are also being accepted through Will County Crime Stoppers at 800-323-6734.
Catalytic Converter Theft: A Nationwide Issue
Thefts of catalytic converters have risen dramatically in recent years due to the valuable metals inside, such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Criminals can sell the stolen parts for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, leaving vehicle owners with costly repairs.
In this case, the theft not only impacted school operations but disrupted the education of hundreds of students. Officials say the cost of repairs could be substantial, and they are working with insurance providers to cover some of the expenses.
What’s Next for the District?
As repairs continue, the district is monitoring progress and plans to provide updates to families regarding the return to in-person learning. Parents and students have been advised to check official school communications for announcements.
The incident has sparked discussions among local officials about increasing security at transportation lots, including installing surveillance cameras and motion-detecting alarms to prevent future thefts. For now, the district’s priority remains getting its buses back on the road and resuming normal operations.