Introduction

When Darren Cooper and his family returned from what was supposed to be a joyous early Christmas vacation on December 21, the last thing they expected was to discover that their car had been stolen. "You start wandering around and wondering what it was you forgot while you were on vacation," Cooper recounted. "We all had pretty clear memories of where we had parked, but it quickly became clear that our car was not where it should be."

The Incident

The Coopers had parked their 2022 Toyota Highlander in the long-term domestic terminal parkade P1 at Calgary Airport, believing it was a safer choice compared to the other lots. Unfortunately, statistics reveal that their choice may have made them a target; the Toyota Highlander was the most stolen vehicle in Canada in 2023, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

Vehicle Theft Statistics in Alberta

Vehicle theft has been a significant issue in Alberta's major cities, with Edmonton reporting a staggering 4,533 stolen vehicles in 2024 and Calgary slightly trailing behind with 4,015. Despite a trend indicating a decline in car thefts in Calgary, January has historically been a high season for auto thefts, leaving many residents vulnerable and on edge.

Advice from Law Enforcement

Patrick Lambert from the Alberta RCMP emphasizes that while theft numbers are decreasing, vigilance remains crucial. "Auto theft is a crime of opportunity," he stated. "If valuables are left in open sight or vehicles are left running with keys in the ignition, it becomes the path of least resistance for thieves."

Impact on the Cooper Family

Following their unfortunate incident, the Coopers now face the burden of purchasing a new vehicle while reconsidering their approach to automotive security. "Once bitten, twice shy. I’m now very cautious about owning a Toyota after this experience," said Cooper. "We even questioned dealers about security features."

Considerations for Vehicle Security

Thinking ahead, Cooper is contemplating the installation of a geo-locating device—like an Apple AirTag hidden in a discreet location. While such devices can aid in recovery, the RCMP advises against personal attempts to track stolen vehicles. Instead, they recommend leaving the matter to law enforcement to ensure safety.

Public Safety and Reporting

"The priority is always public safety," Lambert added. "We encourage vehicle owners to file appropriate reports and allow law enforcement to do their jobs."

Calgary Airport Authority's Response

In light of this troubling incident, the Calgary Airport Authority issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to safety. They urged guests to report any criminal activities, including vehicle theft, directly to the Calgary Police Service and assured that they would cooperate fully with any investigative processes.

Conclusion

As car thefts continue to pose a threat, this family's unfortunate experience serves as a cautionary tale for travelers and vehicle owners across Canada to take necessary precautions to protect their property.