An investigation is ongoing after men impersonating police officers stopped a driver on Highway 401 in Tilbury and stole the victim’s vehicle.
The Ontario Provincial Police said officers were called to the eastbound lanes of the highway east of Queen’s Line for a report of a robbery at around 9 p.m. on December 25.
The victim reported that they were stopped by two vehicles, one of which had flashing red and blue lights in the windshield. Two men approached and ordered the victim to exit their vehicle, while a third suspect remained in one of the other vehicles.
A struggle ensued and the suspects fled the scene in their vehicles, as well as the victim’s vehicle.
The victim was taken to hospital by EMS to be treated for minor injuries.
One of the suspects is described as a black man in his 30s, 6’0″ tall, wearing all-black clothing, a black mask, a black ballistic-styled vest, and carrying a handgun in a holster.
A second suspect is described as a brown man in his 20s, 5’8″ tall, wearing all-black clothing, a black mask, and a black ballistic-styled vest.
A description of the third suspect was not provided.
The vehicles used in the theft were described as a black sedan with red and blue flashing lights in the windshield and a black SUV. No police markings were seen on either vehicle.
Authorities said investigators believe this was an isolated incident and there is no threat to public safety.
The OPP is reminding the public that citizens may ask a police officer to provide the name of their service, detachment, badge number, and warrant card. The officer should be able to provide this information without delay.
Anyone who witnessed or has dashcam footage of this incident is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
