Date: December 12, 2024 | 9:42 AM

NANAIMO — A shocking wave of vandalism swept through Nanaimo this week, leaving a trail of destruction as 42 vehicles were reported damaged in a bizarre nighttime spree. Local authorities are now on the hunt for the culprits behind this rampant destruction.

According to reports from Nanaimo RCMP, the vandalism occurred between 11 p.m. on December 10 and 4:30 a.m. the following morning. The incidents primarily involved broken windows, shattered side mirrors, and deflated tires, all targeted at vehicles parked on the street or in public lots.

Reserve Constable Gary O’Brien revealed the specific targeting of driver's side windows, suggesting a methodical approach by the vandals. 'We noticed that on Harwell Road alone, nine vehicles were struck. It appears a small projectile was used to systematically break the windows,' he stated.

The affected areas include the south end of Nanaimo, downtown, East Wellington, and even some spots in north Nanaimo near Woodgrove Centre. Disturbingly, three vehicles parked at Vancouver Island University were also attacked.

'To date, we have identified several suspect vehicles but are withholding details as we continue the investigation,' O'Brien added. The police are particularly interested in collecting any video or dashcam footage from the public to piece together the timeline of the events.

What makes this incident particularly puzzling is the random nature of the attacks, leading investigators to suspect that these may not have been premeditated acts but rather opportunistic vandalism. 'No vehicles parked in driveways were vandalized, indicating that these acts might have been impulsive rather than planned,' O’Brien commented.

Compounding the issue, the Ladysmith RCMP detachment has reported a rise in similar vehicle vandalism cases, prompting collaboration between the two divisions to address this alarming trend.

Authorities urge anyone with information or visual evidence regarding these incidents to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345. As the investigation unfolds, residents are left to wonder who could commit such reckless acts, and what triggers such inexplicable behavior in a community typically known for its peace.

Stay informed by subscribing to our daily news wrap, delivered straight to your inbox!