The Guelph Police Service is investigating after a woman’s purse was stolen in a distraction theft at the Stone Road Plaza in Guelph, Ontario. The incident happened on February 26, 2026, shortly after 3:00 p.m. as the woman and her husband were returning to their vehicle after visiting a business.
While the couple was walking to their car, they were approached by a female suspect who asked for help finding a medical office. While the couple was busy talking to her, a male accomplice managed to take the purse from inside their vehicle.
Police say there were two suspects involved in the theft. This tactic is used to lower a person’s guard by having one person start a conversation while a second person steals valuables that are left out in the open.
Officers are reminding the public to keep their car doors locked and to keep expensive items out of sight, even if they are standing right next to their vehicle. Shoppers are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings when loading items or returning to their cars in busy shopping areas.
The Guelph Police Service is asking anyone with security camera or dashcam footage from the plaza to come forward. Information about the incident can be shared directly with the investigators looking into the case.
