GRAND JUNCTION, CO — A 37-year-old Grand Junction man was arrested Thursday morning after allegedly stealing an unlocked vehicle from a residence on North Avenue, thanks in part to home security footage and a family member who tracked the truck.
On April 9, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m., deputies with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported vehicle theft in the 2900 block of North Avenue. A family member of the victim was actively following the stolen vehicle as it traveled westbound. Upon arrival at the home, deputies were provided with security footage showing a male entering the unlocked vehicle and driving away.
Following information regarding the truck’s potential location, deputies found a man nearby who matched the description of the suspect in the video. The suspect, identified as Louie Alire, 37, was initially arrested on outstanding warrants. Further investigation and evidence positively identified Alire as the individual seen taking the vehicle.
Alire was transported to the Mesa County Detention Facility and booked on the following charges related to the incident:
- Third-degree motor vehicle theft (Felony 5)
- Theft of $1,000-$2,000 from a motor vehicle (Misdemeanor 1)
- Second-degree criminal trespass of a motor vehicle (Misdemeanor 2)
- Criminal mischief under $300 (Petty Offense)
Authorities successfully recovered the stolen truck and returned it to the victims. In light of the incident, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office reminded the community to always lock vehicles, remove keys and valuables, and never leave a running vehicle unattended.