Surrey police seek witnesses after theft reported at retirement residence

Surrey Police Service is asking the public for help as officers investigate a theft at a retirement residence in the city’s South Surrey area.

Police say the incident happened on December 15 around 2:10 pm at a residence in the 15500 block of 16 Avenue. Investigators allege a man entered the building and gained access to an apartment by claiming he was a maintenance worker inspecting the sprinkler system. Once inside, the suspect is accused of taking the resident’s purse before leaving the building.

The suspect is described as a white man, about 5 feet 8 inches tall. At the time, he was wearing dark pants, a red Under Armour hoodie, a dark hat and glasses. Police have released images of the individual in hopes that witnesses or others who may have had a similar encounter will come forward.

SPS says the investigation is ongoing and officers believe there may be additional witnesses who were in the area at the time. Police are also asking anyone who may recognize the suspect or have relevant information to contact them.