Victoria mom pleads for return of disabled child’s stolen bike trailer

A Victoria thief looted a disabled child’s bike trailer this week, prompting a plea for help from the public to locate the gear.

The blue and yellow trailer was stolen from a secure parking garage in the Gorge Street East area, near Galloping Goose Trail, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3rd.

Despite it being secured with a braided wire cable and a U-lock, the child’s cyclist mother, Kerry Vandendriessche, says the thief likely used a grinder tool to free the trailer.

“Due to its size and specialty, this was an expensive piece of equipment for our family and a devastating loss for Louis,” said Vandendriessche via a GoFundMe launched Wednesday.

“I am hopeful it will be found, but in the event that it is not, I will need to buy a replacement,” she added.

The single mom is hoping to raise $1,600, and so far, over $700 has been raised.

“This item is beyond my ability to afford a second time,” said Vandendriessche, noting a new trailer will cost around $1,200, plus another $200 for locks.

“If the trailer is found, I will donate the money raised to the Women’s Transition House since they helped us when we first moved to town.”

https://twitter.com/hostilebear/status/1521871962393309184

“Help us get this family back on the bike path!” added VicPD.

Victoria Police encourage anyone with information about the theft to come forward, calling its report desk at (250) 995-7654.