Table of Contents
Introduction
In recent years, vehicle theft has become a growing concern for many communities across Canada. The story of Sheldon Taylor from Wetaskiwin, Alberta, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by this crime. On a chilly Thursday morning, Taylor’s life was turned upside down when he encountered a thief attempting to steal his pickup truck right from his driveway.
The Incident
As Taylor prepared for his day, he left his 2001 GMC Sierra warming up while he quickly stepped inside to grab the trash. In a matter of moments, he heard the unmistakable sound of his truck door closing. Realizing someone was inside, he rushed outside, only to find himself in a terrifying chase. The thief, who had arrived on a bicycle, reversed the truck down the driveway, striking Taylor and sending him flying over the hood.
Surveillance footage captured the shocking event, revealing the audacity of the thief. After hitting Taylor, the suspect stopped briefly at a stop sign before fleeing the scene. Taylor, a father of seven, expressed gratitude that he was the one involved and not one of his children, who could have been in the vehicle at that moment.
The Aftermath
Following the incident, Taylor crawled back into his home to call for help. His injuries, while not life-threatening, left him battered and bruised. He was taken to the hospital, where medical staff confirmed he was fortunate to have only sustained soft tissue injuries. The emotional toll, however, was significant. Taylor’s family had moved to Wetaskiwin three years prior, seeking better job opportunities, but they had also become increasingly aware of the crime issues in their community.
Despite taking precautions, such as locking up at night and installing surveillance cameras, the theft left Taylor feeling vulnerable. He voiced concerns about the safety of his family, especially his six daughters and newborn son. The incident has sparked a conversation about the need for a more visible police presence in Wetaskiwin, as residents feel increasingly uneasy about their safety.
Community Response
Local authorities, including the RCMP, responded swiftly to the incident, confirming Taylor’s account and launching an investigation. The thief is described as a six-foot-tall man with a medium complexion, wearing a black hat and beige long-sleeve shirt. As the search for the stolen truck continues, community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
As vehicle thefts rise, it is crucial for residents to engage with local law enforcement and advocate for stronger safety measures. Taylor’s experience serves as a wake-up call, highlighting the need for community solidarity in combating crime. The stolen 2001 GMC Sierra, with Alberta license plate BZF6276, remains missing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Wetaskiwin RCMP.