Thieves Steal Vehicles and Security System in Rural Break-In Near Chase

Mounties are actively investigating an audacious early-morning break-and-enter at a rural property near Chase, where thieves made off with recreational vehicles and even the home's own security system.

Details of the Break-In

The incident occurred on May 11 at approximately 12:30 a.m. According to the RCMP, the perpetrators cut the gate lock on a rural property located on Loakin-Bear Creek Road. Once on the property, the thieves forced their way into the main residence as well as several outbuildings.

“Investigators believe the suspects may have used a pry bar located on the property to gain entry,” stated RCMP Const. Sarah Van Wilgenburg.

Items Stolen and Discovered Evidence

The thieves managed to escape with a significant haul of valuable property. Stolen items include a green Polaris Sportsman 500 ATV, a camouflage-patterned Arctic Cat Prowler side-by-side, various household goods, and notably, the property's home security system.

Despite the thieves' attempts to cover their tracks by stealing the security system, the equipment successfully captured crucial evidence before it was taken. “Prior to the security system being stolen, images were captured of a white Jeep believed to be associated with the incident,” Van Wilgenburg noted.

In a dramatic twist, the suspect vehicle, a white Jeep, was later discovered overturned in a nearby creek. The vehicle has since been towed from the scene.

RCMP Forensic Identification Services were dispatched to the residence to meticulously process the property and collect physical evidence to aid in the ongoing investigation.

Protecting Rural Properties

Rural properties, often isolated from neighbors, can be attractive targets for burglars. Implementing robust security measures is essential:

• Secure Tools and Equipment: Do not leave tools like pry bars or ladders accessible outside. Thieves frequently use a homeowner's own tools to facilitate a break-in.
• Layered Security: Combine heavy-duty gate locks with motion-sensor lighting and perimeter alarms. Store valuable off-road vehicles in securely locked, windowless outbuildings.
• Cloud-Based Security Systems: Ensure your security cameras instantly upload footage to a secure cloud server. As seen in this case, even if the physical recording device is stolen, the footage is preserved.
• GPS Trackers: Consider hiding small, battery-operated GPS tracking devices on high-value items like ATVs and side-by-sides to assist police in recovery efforts if they are stolen.