VANCOUVER are investigating a distraction theft after a 76-year-old woman was targeted by a stranger near East 11th Avenue and Victoria Drive on Tuesday afternoon.
The senior was waiting for family members around 12:30 p.m. when she was approached by a woman who said she looked like her mother. The woman hugged her, saying it was her mothers’ birthday.
During the encounter, the suspect allegedly removed the victim’s gold necklace and replaced it with another necklace without the victim’s knowledge. About 30 minutes later, the senior discovered her necklace, which had two gold rings attached to it, was missing.
The female suspect is described as white, with olive skin, in her mid-30s, with a round face and short dark hair.
A male suspect believed to have been driving the vehicle is described as white, with olive skin, in his mid-30s, with short dark hair and no facial hair.
The suspect vehicle is described as a dark green four-door sedan.
“Police are urging community members with elderly relatives to make sure their loved ones are aware these thefts are occurring, and to take steps to protect themselves,” says Constable Megan Lui. “Keep valuable jewelry hidden under clothing and do not let strangers approach you, even if they seem friendly and are offering gifts.”
Anyone with information, dashcam footage, or home security video from the area of East 11th Avenue and Victoria Drive between 12:15 p.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday is asked to call the Vancouver Police Department.
