The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is seeking witnesses following a senior-targeted distraction theft that took place on Tuesday afternoon.
According to the VPD, a 76-year-old woman was waiting for her family members near East 11th Avenue and Victoria Drive at approximately 12:30 p.m. when she was approached by a woman who claimed she resembled her mother.
The unidentified woman hugged the senior under the pretense of it being her mother’s birthday, during which she slyly swapped the victim’s gold necklace with another one.
Approximately thirty minutes later, the senior realized that her necklace, adorned with two gold rings, had vanished, as reported by the VPD.
The suspect is described as a woman in her mid-30s with a round face and short dark hair. Additionally, a dark green four-door sedan linked to the incident was reportedly driven by a man in his mid-30s with short dark hair and a clean-shaven face.
Const. Megan Lui of the VPD advised community members to educate their elderly relatives about these thefts and to take precautions to safeguard themselves. She recommended concealing valuable jewelry beneath clothing and avoiding interaction with strangers, even if they appear friendly or offer gifts.
Individuals who may have witnessed the incident or have video footage from the area between 12:15 p.m. and 1 p.m. on Tuesday are encouraged to contact the VPD.