Toronto Humane Society 'heartbroken' after rescue van stolen
Toronto Humane Society (THS) staff say they are “heartbroken” after a van critical to their work was stolen.
“This van was more than just a van. It was a rescue tool, a mobile lifeline that has carried hundreds of animals to safety, to security, and to the start of something new,” the non-profit organization said in a news release issued Tuesday.
- Download our app to get local alerts on your device
- Get the latest local updates right to your inbox
Aside from the transportation of rescue animals, the van was also used to deliver pet food and attend community events -- all efforts which have been hampered by the theft, Hannah Sotropa, assistant manager of communications at the THS, told CTV News Toronto in an interview.
Most recently, the van was used to transport a tiny puppy with a broken leg and a senior dog with medical complications.
On Monday night, THS said, two individuals broke into the downtown facility’s parking garage at approximately 11 p.m. and stole the vehicle.
No staff or animals were harmed during the break in, according to THS. Additional security measures have since been put in place to protect staff and animal safety for the immediate future.
In addition to the van itself, Sotropa said, a number of other key pieces of equipment were stolen, including walkie-talkies, an industrial vacuum, and a pressure washer.
Toronto police confirmed to CTV News Toronto they are investigating the incident.
THS said that officers attended the facility on Tuesday morning.
In total, Sotropa said, the value of the goods stolen is somewhere between $50 and $60,000.
A van used by the Toronto Humane Society for rescue animal transportation is seen in these images. (Instagram/toronto_humane_society)
“It's not a small expenditure, especially for a non-profit who, you know, rely solely on the generous support of our donors and supporters,” she said.
In an effort to recoup their losses and buy a replacement rescue van, THS has set up a fundraiser where individuals can donate.
“Asking for your help now feels strange because of the intensity of emotions that arise when we think of this unfortunate event. But the need has never been more urgent,” the news release continued.
In the meantime, THS said it will be forced to rent a van and lean on its other vehicle, which is not dedicated to animal rescue transfers, to support its work.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a plot by two men in Montreal to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Demonstrators kicked out of Ontario legislature for disruption after failed keffiyeh vote
A group of demonstrators were kicked out of the legislature after a second NDP motion calling for unanimous consent to reverse a ban on the keffiyeh failed to pass.
BREAKING Man wanted in connection with deadly shooting in Toronto tops list of most wanted fugitives in Canada
A 35-year-old man wanted in connection with the murder of Toronto resident 29-year-old Sharmar Powell-Flowers nine months ago has topped the list of the BOLO program’s 25 most wanted fugitives across Canada, police announced Tuesday.
Tom Mulcair: Park littered with trash after 'pilot project' is perfect symbol of Trudeau governance
Former NDP leader Tom Mulcair says that what's happening now in a trash-littered federal park in Quebec is a perfect metaphor for how the Trudeau government runs things.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Cherry blossoms blooming in Canada: Here's what to know
There is a swaying sea of colour in some cities across Canada, and it's a sure sign of spring: cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Murder charges filed against U.S. woman who crashed into building hosting birthday party, killing 2 kids
A Michigan woman was charged Tuesday with second-degree murder and other crimes after prosecutors say she drunkenly smashed her SUV into a boat club that was hosting a birthday party, killing two young siblings and injuring several other people.
Toronto's police chief clarifies initial statement on Umar Zameer acquittal, says he 'accepts' jury's finding
Toronto's Chief of Police has clarified a statement that he'd hoped for "a different outcome" made just after Umar's Zameer acquittal, telling reporters Tuesday he supports and accepts the jury's finding in the five-week trial.