Windsor Police Release Surveillance Images in Downtown Pickup Truck Theft
Windsor police have launched a public appeal for assistance in identifying a suspect wanted in connection with the theft of a pickup truck from a downtown neighbourhood. Authorities have released two surveillance images obtained from video footage showing a man they believe is responsible for the crime.
Details of the Vehicle Theft Incident
The incident occurred on January 30 when a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck was stolen from the area of Aylmer and Tuscarora avenues. According to police reports, the vehicle had been parked and left running with the key still in the ignition at the time of the theft.
Police located the unoccupied vehicle a short time later in the 500 block of Assumption Street and returned it to its owner. Officers from the auto theft unit subsequently obtained surveillance images of a suspect and are now asking for public help to identify the individual.
Suspect Description and Police Appeal
The suspect is described as:
- A male in his mid-30s
- Light complexion
- Shaved head
- Thick black beard
- Thin build
- Tattoos on his left forearm
Investigators are urging anyone with information or video footage related to this theft to contact the Windsor Police Service auto theft unit at 519-255-6700, extension 4810. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 or submit information online.
Rising Vehicle Theft Trends in Windsor
The incident comes amid concerning vehicle theft statistics in Windsor. Police Chief Jason Crowley recently informed the Windsor Police Service Board that Windsor police investigated nearly 480 vehicle thefts in 2025.
While there was a 70 percent recovery rate with approximately 66 percent of vehicles found within three days, the statistics reveal troubling trends:
- 69 percent of stolen vehicles were unlocked (up from 58 percent in 2024)
- Almost 14 percent had keys left inside (compared to 13 percent in 2024)
Police Reminder About Vehicle Security
In light of this incident and the broader theft trends, Windsor police are reminding residents to practice proper vehicle security measures. Authorities specifically warn against leaving vehicles running while unattended, as this significantly increases the risk of theft.
"This most recent theft serves as an important reminder for all vehicle owners to take basic security precautions," police stated in their public appeal. "Simple measures like removing keys from the ignition and locking doors can dramatically reduce the opportunity for theft."
The investigation into the downtown pickup truck theft continues as police work to identify and locate the suspect captured in the surveillance images.
