West Vancouver police are reminding the public to be alert after a man fell victim to a distraction theft where more than $30,000 worth of belongings were stolen from him.
On Monday (June 8) around 11 a.m., police said a man was waiting in a parking lot in the 600 block of 21st Street near the Seniors’ Activity Centre when approached by a black sedan, likely a BMW.
The male driver and woman seated in the rear passenger seat called him over to the car. The driver then gestured to shake the man’s hand, then quickly nabbed the phone the victim was holding, police said.
Meanwhile, the woman placed a fake gold bar, a ring and necklace in his other hand, while slipping the watch from his wrist.
Before the man knew it, the culprits fled the parking lot in the vehicle. More than $30,000 worth of valuables was stolen, police said.
Police described the male suspect as being in his 50s with a medium build and black hair, and the woman also in her 50s with black hair.
As the physical description of the suspects is minimal, police are encouraging residents to keep an eye out for behaviours associated with distraction thefts.
In a release Thursday, police said distraction thefts can take many forms, including thieves using sleight of hand to steal valuables, offering gifts, giving unsolicited hugs or asking for help. Police added that perpetrators will often work in pairs, making victims fall for their charm or instilling fear and anxiety.
“The North Shore can be a very friendly and welcoming place, and it’s understandable that people may not want to appear rude, but we need to be very cautious when people approach us out of nowhere,” said Suzanne Birch, spokesperson for West Vancouver police.
Birch said Monday’s case was unusual as the perpetrators did not leave the car. Using fake gold and gifts is quite common in distraction thefts, she said, usually used as a tactic to overwhelm or distract someone.
Police encourage people to maintain physical distance when approached by a stranger and be suspicious of unsolicited offers. Investigators also encourage residents to conceal valuables to minimize risks of being targeted and if confronted, to be vocal to attract attention of those nearby.
Seniors are disproportionately targeted for distraction thefts, police said, and encourage family to talk about preventative steps with whose who may be at risk.
While rare for West Vancouver, distraction thefts have become more prevalent throughout the Lower Mainland, Birch said.
Police urge anyone who has been a victim to a distraction theft to call 911.
“We want people to not feel embarrassed to report. This can happen to people,” she said. “Giving us a timely report really makes a big difference to us being able to apprehend these people.”
Abby Luciano is the Indigenous and civic affairs reporter for the North Shore News. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative.
By Abby Luciano, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Original Published on Jun 11, 2026 at 22:40
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