Resident Believes Vandals Used 'High-Powered' Slingshot To Shatter Car Windows

By Tom Mustin

DENVER (CBS4) - Dozens of people found their cars damaged over the weekend. Many of the cases happened in Denver's Stapleton neighborhood near Yosemite Street and 23rd Avenue.

Shattered glass and anger.

"It's not right," said Meo Ramirez.

Stapleton residents woke up to plenty of both this weekend.

"Six people on this street, six people on the next street, and I've seen glass up and down the road," Travis Luther told CBS4's Tom Mustin.

Neighbors say Saturday night someone shot out dozens of car windows. Luther had to miss work Monday after two of his vehicles were targeted.

CBS4 caught up with Luther after he'd just spoken to his insurance company.

"(He said) $300 or $400 per vehicle. It's a real effect on dozens of people and it's a tough time to be doing it," he said.

John McGraw showed CBS4 the marble sized steel ball that shattered his window at the Park-n-Ride, a mile from his home.

"I'm just angry that we have to fix our car window now and spend more money instead of buying presents for our kids," McGraw said.

He believes a high-powered slingshot caused the damage. Neighbors say the force of the pellets could easily have pierced the window of a home.

"This vandalism thing is one thing, but you're talking about really harming people, "said Luther.

Right now Denver police have no leads and no suspects. They also don't have an exact number of cars damaged.

Luther had a message for the brazen vandals.

"I hope they realize what they're doing has a real effect on people, especially during the holidays."

Many residents believe juveniles caused the damage. Denver police would not confirm that. Officers are asking for the public's help in identifying the vandals. Anyone with information is asked to call Denver police.

Tom Mustin is CBS4's Weekend Anchor. He has been with CBS4 since 2002, and is always looking for great story ideas. Connect with Tom on Facebook or follow him on Twitter @TomCBS4.