CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A 20-year-old man, identified as Billie Michael Dyson, was arrested early Monday morning after a string of vehicle burglaries led to the theft and crash of a BMW in a Cape Coral neighborhood, according to the Cape Coral Police Department.
Officers responded around 2 a.m. to a report of a burglary in progress on Southwest 44th Terrace. Home surveillance video reportedly showed Dyson breaking into a vehicle. Soon after, officers spotted a man matching Dyson’s description entering a white BMW nearby and speeding away.
Stolen BMW Belonged to Woman’s Late Mother
The BMW was later confirmed stolen from the driveway of Michelle Tecza, who says the car held sentimental value.
“I want this kid to know, he took my mom’s car,” Tecza said, visibly shaken. “I feel violated… this was a safe neighborhood.”
Police attempted a traffic stop, but Dyson fled. Moments later, he crashed the BMW into a concrete wall at SW 47th Terrace and SW 20th Place. He then ran from the scene but was tracked and arrested by a K-9 unit.
Multiple Charges Filed
Investigators say Dyson had burglarized several vehicles in the area and took items including a key fob, which he used to steal the BMW. He also reportedly admitted to knowing his driver’s license was suspended at the time.
Dyson was booked into the Lee County Jail and faces the following charges:
Burglary of an unoccupied conveyance (2 counts)
Grand theft of a motor vehicle
Petit theft
Driving with a suspended license
Leaving the scene of a crash
Fleeing police
Resisting arrest without violence
Police and Residents Urge Vigilance
Tecza hopes her story serves as a wake-up call for others:
“Please lock your doors. This neighborhood felt safe, but it only takes one moment for that to change.”
