‘Unlocked and idling’: Vernon RCMP use GPS to track stolen truck

With the help of fancy technology, Vernon RCMP has recovered a stolen vehicle after the owner left it idling and unlocked while shopping inside an Armstrong store.

According to a Jan. 12 Vernon North Okanagan media release, the vehicle was left unlocked and idling while the owner shopped in a store on Smith Drive in Armstrong, Jan. 10.

The incident took place at 6 p.m. and the owner called the police.

Luckily, the vehicle was fitted with GPS technology that allowed the RCMP to see where it was travelling.

Police tracked the vehicle as it drove through Salmon Arm and into the Tappen area where Salmon Arm RCMP officer stopped the vehicle and arrested the driver.

"Fortunately, with the assistance of some very useful technology and a quick, coordinated response from officers from both detachments, we were able to locate and recover the vehicle shortly after it was stolen," Vernon RCMP Const. Chris Terleski said in the release.

"Despite both key fobs being with the owner, the newer model vehicle could still be driven. We always discourage leaving a running vehicle unattended and this incident serves as a good reminder that if you need to leave your vehicle running, ensure you use a remote start equipped with a functioning engine immobilizer, do not leave any keys in it, and never leave it unlocked."

A 23-year-old Salmon Arm woman was arrested and released from custody waiting for a court appearance.

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