HOUSTON – A couple who evacuated Louisiana because of Hurricane Ida have found themselves as the latest victims of catalytic converter theft in the Houston area.
“As soon as they said it was going to be a Category 4, we left New Orleans for Hurricane Ida,” Jessica Rust said.
The Rusts said the storm proved too much of a threat for them to stay. They witnessed firsthand what a hurricane can do to a community.
“I had lived through Katrina there and lost everything and decided I’m escaping and getting out,” Jessica Rust said.
The couple settled at a Residence Inn in Willowbrook. Then came Tuesday morning.
“We went to start the vehicle it was so loud it scared us I realized instantly that our catalytic converter was stolen off our vehicle,” she said.
Sound familiar? KPRC 2 spoke to another Hurricane Ida evacuee this week whose catalytic converter was stolen while she sought refuge in Houston.
“I didn’t know this was such a prevalent problem,” said Jonathan Rust.
It is a problem, according to Houston police. A growing one.
“One of the mechanics I talked to said he had three more vehicles just like it in the service bay at the time with the same issue,” Jonathan Rust continued.
The Rusts paid a local mechanic to repair their vehicle. They said they’re grateful they were able to do so, but worry about those who may not have the money.
“It felt like we’re being targeted and getting kicked while we were down,” Jessica Rust said.
The Houston Police Department confirmed Thursday it is investigating this latest theft of catalytic converters.