RCMP investigate multiple thefts from vehicle potentially targeting hunters

The Fort St John RCMP wants to warn hunters that they may be being targeted after three overnight theft from vehicle reports.

2024-9124 – On October 2, at 6:25am, the Fort St John RCMP received a theft of ATV report which occurred at the Holiday Inn Express located at 9504 Alaska Road North, in Fort St John. Overnight straps had been cut and an ATV stolen from the back of a pickup truck. The ATV was recovered by the Fort St John RCMP Street Enforcement Team later that day in the area of 87 Avenue and 88 Street.

2024-9127 – On October 2, at 8:30am, the Fort St John RCMP received another theft from vehicle report after a vehicle with camper attached was broken into at the Best Western Motel located at 8322 86 Street, Fort St John. Vehicle windows had been smashed and attempts were made to enter the camper. A black Pelican case, which typically holds firearms, was stolen along with some tools and random personal items and a roll around gas can.

2024-9158 – On October 3, at 2:00am, the Fort St John RCMP received a report of a vehicle break in at the Holiday Inn Express located at 9504 Alaska Road North in Fort St John. A window was smashed and the suspect went through the vehicle, stealing 2 hunting rifles and jerry cans.

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.

Steps to take to secure hunting gear:

1. Secure ATV’s and trailers with chains if possible, not just straps,
2. Secure firearms in your residence or hotel room and keep them out of view of the general public.
3. Ensure you secure your firearms with trigger locks or cables for safe transportation,
4. Park where there is adequate lighting to deter would be thieves.
5. Back your vehicle up to a building or other vehicle when you can to protect what is in the back.

The Fort St John RCMP continue to investigate and are asking anyone who may have information in these matters to contact the Fort St John RCMP at 250-787-8100.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.northernbccrimestoppers.ca.