Barrie Police are warning residents to be vigilant after GPS tracking devices were discovered attached to vehicles in the city’s north end, believed to be placed by suspected auto thieves.
Officers were called on Wednesday, February 4th, after two vehicle owners found the devices attached under the hood in an area easily accessed from outside the vehicle near the windshield. The vehicles, a Toyota Tundra and a Toyota Highlander, were newer models and had been parked at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre. Investigators reviewed video footage from Monday, February 2nd, which shows an individual on foot stopping near both vehicles, reaching under the hoods, and then walking away.
Police believe additional vehicles may have had tracking devices placed on them and suspect the devices are being used to monitor vehicle locations and movements to identify an opportunity for theft. Both vehicle owners reported receiving repeated notifications on their mobile devices indicating a tracking device was nearby, though police note not all phones provide such alerts and warn drivers not to rely solely on their devices for detection.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to regularly check their vehicles, particularly newer models, for anything unusual, including under the hood in areas that can be accessed without opening the vehicle.
Police say reporting suspicious activity can help prevent vehicle thefts and assist investigators, and anyone who discovers a suspicious device is asked not to touch it and to contact police, while emergencies or crimes in progress should be reported by calling 911.
