Don’t leave valuables in cars when hiking and biking
When the snow clears it’s natural to load up the car with your gear and head for the hills. However, the RCMP are cautioning hikers and mountain bikers to be careful about what they leave behind.
One 19-year-old Whistler resident returned to her vehicle at the Cheakamus Trail entrance and as she approached a male fled in a new model, black Ford with stolen B.C. plates, number NDD 078, and validation sticker.
The suspect had stolen the victim’s purse, and while heading southbound on the highway he dumped most of the contents onto the highway. She estimates that approximately $60 was taken.
The suspect is described as approximately 30 years old with blond hair, moustache, and a medium build. He was wearing a light colour T-shirt. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Whistler RCMP at 604-932-3044.
This was the first such incident of the season, but more will likely be reported as people head to the outdoors leaving their cars parked at trailheads. Although the RCMP receives complaints from many areas, two of the more common complaints come from the Cheakamus and Brandywine Recreation sites.
Thieves target vehicles, including tour buses, with valuables left inside. That includes sporting equipment, cameras, sunglasses, CDs, wallets, purses, knapsacks and coolers.
The RCMP recommends that you don’t leave any valuables in your car or trunk, and to consider purchasing some form of steering wheel-locking device to prevent auto theft. Make sure your doors are always locked.
If you see any suspicious activity, record descriptions of suspects and their vehicles, including plate numbers, and report it to your local RCMP detachment.
