Add a Ford Bronco to the list of recently stolen vehicles, with Barrie police saying it's believed thieves cloned a key fob.
On Monday, city police were initially contacted regarding the overnight thefts of three Ford F-150s - as well - more were stolen from close by regions.
"We later learned that four additional 2023 Ford F-150 pickup trucks had also been stolen and reported to Dufferin OPP (two from the Town of Orangeville and two from the Town of Mono)," officers said on Tuesday.
"Unfortunately, late yesterday afternoon, the owner of a red 2023 Ford Bronco discovered that it too had been stolen sometime likely overnight."
Police say the Bronco was last seen on Sunday around 5:00 p.m., locked at the owner's home southeast of St. Vincent Street and Osprey Ridge Road.
"The owner also had both sets of keys, so it is believed that this theft also involved the cloning of a key fob," police said.
The Bronco had modifications including 18-inch Fuel rims with 33-inch BF Goodrich All Terrain Tires, a modified exhaust system, and amber-coloured headlights.
"This is the first known theft involving a Ford Bronco and as a result, Barrie Police is asking owners of these motor vehicles to take precautions against theft. Any motor vehicle can be a target of theft at any time, but again, prevention steps taken today, could prevent you from becoming a victim tomorrow," officers added.
Police again offered safety tips:
- Park your locked motor vehicle in a locked garage
- Move any key fobs away from front door area and secure in a Faraday bag or Feraday box
- Use a steering wheel locking device or a wheel locking device
- Consider installing an ignition immobilizer
- Use a second motor vehicle and park it close to any identified vehicles
- Utilize tracking devices
- Install security cameras
- Keep exterior lighting on during the overnight hours
- Never leave valuables in your car – secure in your home or in the trunk (or cover them so they cannot be seen)
"ALWAYS lock your motor vehicle if it cannot be safely secured indoors even if you are leaving it only for a brief period of time."
Banner image via the Barrie Police Service
