The Guelph Police Service is urging residents to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles following a recent string of thefts and attempted thefts across the city between March 18 and March 26, 2026. The incidents include a bold ram raid at local dealerships and several residential thefts, prompting investigators to call for increased vigilance from the public.
The most significant event occurred overnight between March 18 and March 19, when suspects used a black SUV believed to be a Cadillac Escalade to ram through a gate at a Woodlawn Road West dealership. The suspects first stole an unplated red 2006 GMC Sierra pickup and then used the SUV to force open a gate at a second location to steal a black 2013 Chevrolet Suburban. In a separate incident on March 19, a resident near Clair Road East and Victoria Road South reported his black 2025 Lincoln Navigator was stolen directly from his driveway. Another attempt occurred on March 21 near Pine Ridge Drive and Jenson Boulevard, where suspects broke a window of a 2025 Lexus but were unable to override its electrical system to start the vehicle.
Police are actively investigating these occurrences and have made several arrests related to other stolen vehicles found in the area. According to data from the Équité Association, auto theft remains a costly issue for Canadians, even as reported incidents have fluctuated in recent years. In Guelph, there were 162 vehicles reported stolen in 2025, with Toyota and Lexus models being the most frequent targets (38 stolen).
To help prevent further thefts, the Guelph Police Service recommends that residents park their vehicles inside a garage whenever possible or in well-lit areas. Owners should ensure all windows and doors are locked and consider using anti-theft devices. For those with electronic key fobs, police suggest using signal-blocking pouches to prevent thieves from capturing the signal. Residents are also encouraged to report any suspicious activity around unattended vehicles to authorities immediately.
Anyone with information regarding these recent thefts is asked to contact Constable Jonathan Schleen at 519-824-1212, extension 7570. Anonymous tips can also be provided to Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
