At least 70 tires were damaged during a slashing rampage in Esquimalt last Friday that’s left several area residents feeling angry and confused.
Police are still trying to piece together an exact timeline for the slashing spree, but it’s believe the suspect or suspects struck various vehicles along Craigflower Road, from Skinner Street to Admirals, some time between midnight and 3 a.m., causing an estimated $70,000 in damage.
Some residents were hit multiple times, with all tires punctured on their vehicle, while other vehicles were struck randomly on the street. One woman was on her way to a radiation appointment that morning.
“You can see where the path of destruction is,” said Victoria police spokesperson Bowen Osoko, who’s never seen tire damage to this extent.
It’s too early to tell if just one person is responsible for the brazen crime, he added, but police have identified a person of interest as the investigation continues.
Barb Hicke was pulling out of her driveway to go to work on Friday morning when she discovered the tire on the passenger side of her car was flat. The long-time Esquimalt resident didn’t realize much of the neighbourhood was having the same problem until she was at a tire repair shop and given the news.
After forking over $200 for a new tire, Hicke is left feeling frustrated that someone would commit such a senseless crime.
“I just hope the person gets help because there’s something wrong with you if you have to go and vandalize that many vehicles and not think of the cost,” said Hicke. “I just don’t get why someone would do something like that.”
Investigators are asking anyone who had their vehicle damaged or saw anything suspicious to call 250-995-7654 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
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