Police investigating string of vandalism incidents at Vancouver churches

There has been a major spike in crimes at religious properties in Vancouver this summer, police say.

Investigations are underway into several incidents of vandalism at churches throughout the city and the Vancouver Police Department is hoping witnesses will step forward.

“We’re reminding people to be proactive and to report anything unusual at church properties, because we’re concerned this could escalate into a situation where someone gets badly hurt,” said Sgt. Steve Addison.

“If you see anyone who looks suspicious and you think they’re about to commit a crime, please don’t hesitate to call 911.”

#VPDNews: Vancouver Police are calling on witnesses to report suspicious activity around churches, following a major spike in crimes at religious properties this summer. https://t.co/eFEoFFmMPm pic.twitter.com/fMxJy3FsvI

— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) July 22, 2021

The VPD is investigating 13 incidents of mischief and vandalism at church properties since June 2, but no arrests have been made so far.

Incidents include rocks being thrown through windows, buildings being defaced with paint and arson threats.

Here are a few incidents of note:

• A church building near Little Mountain was vandalized around 9 pm on June 8 by four people dressed in black. They threw red paint on property, posted signs and painted graffiti that referenced residential schools.
• An unknown person threatened to burn down a church in South Vancouver on Canada Day.
• A church in Renfrew-Collingwood was vandalized at 10:45 pm on Canada Day by two women who threw orange paint on the side of the building.
• Sometime between July 4 and July 7, someone threw a rock through the window of a church in Kitsilano.
• The pastor of a South Cambie church was making his early-morning rounds on July 20 when he discovered a gallon of lighter fluid and rags near the side of the building at 4 am. He also saw a suspicious man standing in the middle of the road staring at the church.

The crimes have mainly happened at night or in the early-morning hours, but the VPD says these buildings are often occupied day and night and the crimes could put people in danger.

Fortunately, Addison said, no one has been hurt in these incidents and most of the damage has been minor.

“However, we’re growing more concerned each day by the escalation of these crimes and their brazen nature, and we’re calling on the people responsible for these crimes to stop,” he added.

“There are more productive ways to voice your anger and express your views.”

Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call 604-717-0613.