The Brockville Police Service is investigating a series of vehicle thefts that occurred in the city’s southwest end on March 29, 2025. Two vehicles, a 2024 Toyota Tundra and a 2024 Toyota Highlander, were stolen from residential driveways, while a separate attempted theft involving a 2025 Toyota Highlander was reported in the same neighbourhood during the same timeframe.
Following the report of the thefts, the Ontario Provincial Police successfully recovered the 2024 Toyota Tundra in the Kemptville area. A 31-year-old male was arrested and faces charges of possession of property obtained by crime. As of March 31, 2026, the 2024 Toyota Highlander remains missing.
These incidents highlight a broader issue with vehicle theft, as the Toyota Tundra and Highlander consistently rank among the most frequently stolen vehicles in Canada, according to data from the Équité Association. Locally, Brockville Police Chief Mark Noonan has noted a shift in theft statistics, which had previously trended downward from 38 incidents in 2022 to 22 in 2024, before showing signs of an uptick mid-way through 2025. Overall, police records show that total thefts in the city rose to 526 in 2025.
Authorities emphasize that vehicle theft is often linked to organized crime networks. During a roundtable discussion in August 2025, Ontario Associate Solicitor General Zee Hamid stated that proceeds from such crimes are often used to fund illegal activities including guns, gangs, drugs, and human trafficking. In response to the province-wide issue, both the provincial and federal governments have committed millions in funding through initiatives such as the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft to support police efforts and crime prevention.
To help prevent further thefts, police are reminding residents to secure their vehicles and property. Recommended security precautions include installing cameras, improving driveway lighting, and using physical anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, to deter potential thieves.
