Local RCMP continue to investigate multiple theft from vehicle reports in Fort St. John which occurred earlier this month.
At around 6:30am on October 2, the local RCMP were called regarding the theft of an ATV which took place at the Holiday Inn Express located at 9504 Alaska Road North, in Fort St John.
During the night, the straps securing an ATV to the back of a pickup truck were cut, and the ATV was stolen. The Fort St. John RCMP Street Enforcement Team later found the ATV that same day close to 87 Avenue and 88 Street.
About two hours later at 8:30am, the local police received a similar report following a vehicle with a camper attached being broken into at the Best Western Motel located at 8322 86 Street, Fort St John. The windows of the vehicle had been smashed, while attempts to enter the camper were made.
Multiple items were stolen including a black Pelican case which could be used to secure firearms, tools, a roll around gas can and some personal items.
The Fort St. John RCMP received a report of a vehicle break in around 2:00am on October 3, at the Holiday Inn Express located at 9504 Alaska Road North in Fort St John.
Two hunting rifles were stolen by the suspect after a window had been smashed and they had gone through the vehicle.
“It appears that these theft from vehicles are targeting hunters and their possessions as a seasonal opportunity. Vehicles that look like a hunting vehicle probably have valuable hunting gear in it,” said Constable Chad Neustaeter, Media Relations Officer for the Fort St John RCMP. “Our intent with sharing this information is to prevent further thefts by bringing awareness to hunters in the area so that they can take steps to protect their possessions, especially firearms.”
The Fort St John RCMP have provided the following steps for securing hunting gear:
·Whenever possible, secure ATVs and trailers with chains instead of relying solely on straps
·Ensure that firearms in your home or hotel room are securely stored and kept out of sight from the public
·Make sure to secure your firearms with trigger locks or cables during transportation for added safety.
·Choose parking areas that are well-lit to help deter potential thieves.
·Whenever possible, back your vehicle up to a building or another vehicle to shield the contents in the back.
The Fort St. John RCMP is continuing their investigation and encourages anyone with information about these incidents to reach out at 250-787-8100.
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