LIVINGSTON - A large-scale burglar ring ended with the arrests of three teenagers and the death of a fourth suspect, authorities said Friday.

Nicholas Gaudin and Noah Templet, both 17, and an unidentified 15-year-old were arrested in connection with the thefts of items from vehicles in the Walker and Port Vincent areas. A fourth suspect, Caine Miller, died after shooting himself when deputies in Ascension Parish attempted to apprehend him earlier in the investigation.

Livingston Parish released the latest information Friday evening. Deputies said the thefts happened in October and November. About $11,300 worth of items were stolen. Most of it, $8,700 worth, was recovered.

"Through an extensive investigation, detectives learned that all vehicles targeted were left unlocked. As we get into the holiday season, I want to encourage our citizens to take extra precautions to avoid becoming a victim. Criminals will strike at every opportunity, let’s not give them one," Sheriff Jason Ard said in a statement.

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