Suspects still on the loose after smash and grabs in Okanagan Falls and Summerland

PENTICTON – Police continue to look for thieves who don't seem to believe in using doors after several businesses in two Okanagan communities were rammed by vehicles over the weekend.   

Police say they are making some headway in the apprehension of the person or persons responsible for a smash and enter at Tickleberry’s Ice Cream Shop in Okanagan Falls early Monday morning, Aug. 3.

Penticton RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Don Wrigglesworth says police discovered the suspect vehicle being driven in the Keremeos area overnight Monday, Aug. 3. The SUV rammed a police car before its driver fled on foot. Police are in the process of obtaining a search warrant to investigate the motel room the suspect was apparently staying in.

The driver continues to be at large.

Summerland RCMP also reported four smash and grabs at various locations in Summerland over the weekend.

Pharmasave, Summerland Golf Club, Kettle Valley Steam Train and Sumac Ridge Winery were all rammed, resulting in extensive damage to the buildings.

Police report suspects were driving a large 4X4 pickup truck, dark-coloured and possibly grey with a red tidy tank visible in the box. The vehicle failed to stop for police, after last being seen leaving the Summerland downtown area following the Sumac Ridge break and enter.

Police describe the vehicle as being extensively damaged. A number of golf clubs and drivers were reported stolen in the thefts.

Road checks and patrols were initiated, but police failed to find the vehicle.

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