Hamilton Police are reminding vehicle owners and delivery drivers that the number one theft deterrent for an automobile is to remove the keys and lock the vehicle when left unattended. In the past 48 hours, police received two reports involving automobile thefts where thieves stole the vehicles as the owners left them unattended with the keys inside.

On Wednesday, September 4, 2019, shortly after 10:30 p.m., a pizza delivery driver attended a residence in the area of Winona Road and Highway 8 for delivery. While standing at the doorway, he heard a noise, turned around and noted a male figure entering his vehicle and then immediately driving off. The keys to the vehicle a 2007 Mazda 3 sedan, were inside the cabin area at the time of the theft. The homeowner had not ordered the delivery.

On Friday, September 6, 2019, shortly before 4:00 a.m., Hamilton Police recovered the stolen auto.

On Thursday, September 5, 2019, shortly after 9:30 p.m., Hamilton Police responded to the area of Lockport Way and North Service Road for the report of a stolen auto. Once on scene, police spoke with the complainant who advised he was delivering a pizza to a residence. While standing at the doorway, he heard a noise, turned around and saw his vehicle being driven away. The keys to the vehicle a 2018 Hyundai Tuscon, were inside the cabin area at the time of the theft. The homeowner had not ordered the delivery.

Hamilton Police continue to investigate these two incidents and although they share some similarities, there is no evidence at this time to confirm they are related.

There is no guarantee in preventing crime; however, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the likeliness of becoming a victim. Hamilton Police are reminding vehicle owners and delivery drivers that the number one theft deterrent for an automobile is to remove the keys and lock the vehicle when left unattended.

A professional thief can steal a vehicle without keys within a minute. A rookie thief can steal a vehicle with the keys in the ignition or cabin area within seconds.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation into these crimes you are asked to contact Detective Rizzo by calling 905-546-2920.

To provide information anonymously call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com