Thieves targeted Ford trucks in Sundre this week, making off with several while unsuccessful in their efforts to steal others.
On Tuesday, Nov. 15 the Sundre RCMP responded to numerous reports of stolen motor vehicles in town. Following their investigations, police were able to determine a rough timeline of the offences.
At about 10 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 14, a light grey 2007 Nissan Sentra was stolen from outside a store in the Sylvan Lake area. Police say this vehicle was used to transport the culprits to Sundre a few hours later where they proceeded to victimize Sundre residents by stealing their vehicles.
The Nissan was recovered north of Sundre on Twp. Rd. 334, where police say it was dumped after the thieves made off with two vehicles stolen from Sundre.
The target vehicles of choice were 2000-2012 Ford F-350s. Police say the thieves “punched” the door lock on the passenger side of the vehicles, entered the vehicles, “punched” the ignitions, and then drove off.
One is a white 2004 Ford F-350 crew cab with gold trim and western decals, black racing wheels with Nitto Trail Grappler tires and Alberta licence plate RTE727. This vehicle was stolen from 10th Avenue NE while it was parked in front of the victim's residence.
The second is a grey 2002 Ford F-350 dually extended cab with Alberta licence plate BTT4919. This vehicle was stolen from the Sundre Forest Products parking lot.
Unsuccessful attempts to steal the same types of vehicles were made at the front and rear parking lot of the apartment block at 503, 6th Street SW as well as outside a residence on 2nd Street NE near 12th Avenue.
Police encourage residents to remain vigilant not only for themselves but also for their neighbours. The thieves prey on people's complacency, so police say to be sure to remove all valuables, garage door openers, as well as extra keys from vehicles. Additionally, report as soon as possible any suspicious activity to the local detachment.
Should residents see a crime in progress, in the interest of their safety, authorities strongly dissuade them from confronting the criminals. Call 911 immediately and supply as much information as you can such as make, model, licence plate of vehicle, suspect descriptions, direction of travel, time it occurred as well as personal information so police can follow up.
Anyone with information about these thefts is encouraged to call the Sundre detachment at 403-638-3675, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
