Police investigate after St. Catharines car spray-painted with hate symbols, vandalized

A St. Catharines resident is claiming they are the victim of a hate crime after their car was vandalized with hate symbols, including a swastika.

The resident tells CHCH News their 2011 grey Volkswagen Passat broke down around 11 p.m. on Oct. 29. They then had their car towed to a parking area on Oakdale Avenue.

When they returned to the car the following day, they say the vehicle was “extensively vandalized” and personal belongings were missing from it. The resident claims the windshield, side windows and rear window had been smashed and the interior had been “ransacked.”

In a press release Monday, Niagara police confirmed they are investigating this incident as a hate-motivated crime.

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Officers say the vehicle was seized for an examination by the Forensic Services Unit. Investigators say they are also reviewing a social media post that is circulating online regarding this hate crime.

The police service says their Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Unit has been made aware of the incident and is in contact with the victim.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009728.

To report a tip and remain anonymous, call 289-248-1058.

This is a developing news story. More to come.

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