Suspects Sought After Elderly Woman Targeted in Distraction Theft
Region of Peel – Investigators from the Peel Regional Police are seeking the public’s assistance identifying two suspects following a distraction theft targeting an elderly woman in Mississauga.
On Friday, June 26, 2026, at approximately 4:20 p.m., an elderly woman was walking in the area of Garnetwood Chase and Rathburn Road East. She was approached by an unknown female who exited the front passenger seat of a blue, newer model Kia Sportage.
The female suspect approached the victim, repeatedly asking if she was okay while placing a fake gold chain around the victim’s neck. When the victim attempted to push the suspect away and call for help, a struggle ensued. A second suspect, male, believed to be the driver of the vehicle, exited and briefly covered the victim’s mouth in an apparent attempt to silence her.
During the altercation, the suspects stole the victim’s 18-karat gold necklace and pendant, valued at approximately $3,500.
The suspects fled the area in the blue Kia that was not displaying licence plates. The vehicle was last seen travelling westbound on Rathburn Road East.
The female suspect is described as an adult woman between 40 and 50 years old, with a medium build and black hair. She was wearing a colourful headscarf and a long black skirt. The victim reported that the suspect spoke a combination of Croatian and English during the interaction.
The male suspect was not described.
Investigators are reminding residents to be cautious when approached by strangers offering assistance, gifts, or jewellery. Distraction thefts often involve suspects creating a diversion to steal valuable property.
Anyone with information, video footage, or dash camera footage from the area between 3:45 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on June 26, is asked to contact investigators with the 12 Division CIB at 905-453-2121 ext. 1233.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Email: media.relations@peelpolice.ca
Phone: 905-453-2121, ext. 4027
N/R: 26-130
Occ#: PR260217770
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