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Car thieves target West Trail

A recent rash of vehicle break-ins and thefts in Trail have local RCMP asking residents to call if they see anything unusual.

A recent rash of vehicle break-ins and thefts in Trail have local RCMP warning residents to take notice of things that go bump in the night.

The RCMP report that between Saturday night and Monday morning a total of four vehicles were broken into in West Trail and two were stolen, with one already recovered.

The vehicles were damaged to varying degrees in the break-ins and several items were stolen including electronics and tools.

Sgt. Rob Hawton, of the Trail and Greater District RCMP, said that this is a somewhat unusual event in that the thieves appeared to have some experience in car theft rather than this just being an opportunistic occurrence.

“This was more than someone just looking for a vehicle to take for a joy ride,” said Hawton. “It was spread over two nights, which is unusual, and the vehicles were locked with no keys left behind. They broke in and punched out the ignitions to start them. They knew what they were doing.”

Of the two vehicles that the thieves actually managed to steal, one was recovered in another part of West Trail and the other has yet to be found.

The RCMP are reminding vehicle owners to always take their keys, lock the vehicles, and to not leave any valuables that might tempt would-be thieves and are requesting that anyone who may have witnessed the incidents, or have any knowledge of them, to contact the RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

“We’re also encouraging people to call if they hear or see anything suspicious,” said Hawton. “Apparently, in this case, someone heard a bang or noise but didn’t check it out. Neighbours being vigilant is the best deterrent in situations like this.”