A suitcase full of treasured personal items was stolen from a car in Nanaimo on Wednesday night.
The car was parked in front of 645 Selby St. The rear driver’s side window was smashed.
Thefts from vehicles are common around this time of year, but this one stands out. The suitcase taken in this particular theft was filled with items belonging to a woman who had just passed away.
Michelle Pearson’s sister died suddenly on November 28, due to complications from a previous surgery.  The suitcase contained pictures of them growing up together, her cell phone and a necklace with five blue sapphires. It is also had her sister’s death and cremation certificates inside. Her favourite teddy bears were also in the car, and RCMP officers found them tossed into some nearby bushes.
The thief also tried, unsuccessfully, to steal the car. The steering column was ripped out, making the vehicle impossible to drive.
Pearson lives in Campbell River but she’s staying in Nanaimo to try to find her sister’s belongings that were inside the soft-shelled black and grey Eddy Bauer suitcase.
“The thief most likely didn’t realize what the suitcase contained or its sentimental value,” said Constable Gary O’Brien. “We are hoping they will do the right thing and turn it in or have someone call and let us know where it can be found.”
If you have information, please call Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
