Saanich Police are investigating two overnight break and enters that occurred two days apart and believe the two events may be related.
The first occurred on Saturday, December 6, at approximately 5:45 a.m., at the Sears Home Center in the 700 block of Tolmie Avenue.
Investigation revealed that two unknown suspects gained entry to the store by breaking out the glass in the main entry door to the business. Once inside, the suspects took several electronic devices. The suspects are believed to have been driving a silver Ford Ranger pickup truck.
Missing from the store was a 55 inch Panasonic tv, a 50 inch Panasonic tv, two Dyson vaccum cleaners, and a Dyson fan/heater. The total value of all of the missing items was estimated at $4400.
One of the suspects was described as a Caucasian male, medium build and height, with short light brown coloured hair. The suspect was wearing a black baseball hat, black jacket, black pants, black gloves, and white runners with an insignia on the side.
Police were not able to locate the vehicle or the suspects, who have not yet been identified. Video surveillance from the business, as well as other nearby businesses, is being gathered.
The second incident occurred on Monday, December 8, at approximately 5:43 a.m. at the Shoppers Drug Mart located in the 2900 block of Tillicum Road in Gorge Plaza.
Saanich Police were alerted by an area resident of an audible alarm at the business. The complainant also advised that the front glass door to the business had been completely smashed out, which would have allowed entry.
Police flooded the area and were not able to locate anyone associated to this crime. It is not known how the suspects arrived or departed from the area.
Investigation has revealed approximately $10,000 worth of small electronic devices, including game consoles, and tablet computers missing from the business.
A witness observed two males in the area just prior to the incident. Both males were described as Caucasian, and both were wearing dark coloured jackets and pants. One of the males had a beard, and the second male was wearing a light coloured hooded sweatshirt under his larger outer coat.
Video surveillance from the business and surrounding businesses are being gathered for review.
“Given the similar circumstances of these two break ins, considering the timing of the events, the manner in which entry has been gained, and the type of items being taken, it is believed that these two events may have perpetrated by the same individuals” Sgt. Steve Eassie said.
It is anticipated that the video surveillance evidence from both locations will provide police with clues to identify the suspects from these incidents.
Anyone who may have seen a silver Ford Ranger pickup being driven in a suspicious manner around the time of either of these incidents may have information that could assist investigators. Anyone who may have information about these crimes are asked to contact the Saanich Police Department at 250-475-4321 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
File 2014-24032 / 2014-24144
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158