Man charged after brazen distraction theft in Richmond, B.C.

An RCMP patch is seen during a news conference about the city's municipal police force transition in Surrey, B.C. on Friday, April 28, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Police in Richmond are advising the public to be cautious of distraction-style thefts after a man was charged in a brazen theft from someone’s car earlier this month.

Police were called to the 8300 block of Lansdowne Road shortly after 10:15 p.m. on Feb. 6, for reports a man had stolen a woman’s phone, Richmond RCMP said in a statement Thursday.

The victim told police a woman had knocked on her car window and pointed out one of her tires had been punctured. When she left the car to check the tire, a man reached into the vehicle and grabbed her purse from the front seat.

When confronted, the suspect dropped the purse and began to flee but was captured by Good Samaritans, who called 911 and held him until police arrived, the statement said.

Cpl. Adriana O’Malley. said police commend the Good Samaritans who came to the victim’s assistance and promptly called 911, “their swift action was instrumental in enabling the officers’ quick response,” she said.

Marco Bryans Neyra Sanchez has been charged with one count of theft, while others who may have been involved in the incident are still being sought by police.

“We have seen similar distraction thefts in the past escalate into a series of incidents. While an arrest has been made, we believe other suspects may still be at large,” said O’Malley, adding that are urging drivers to be cautious of similar, distraction-style thefts.

“If someone approaches you at your vehicle, we urge you to remain cautious and vigilant,” she said.

“Keep your vehicle locked and assess the situation from inside, seeking help from a trusted source if needed.”

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or may have further relevant information, are asked to contact Richmond RCMP at 604-278-1212 and quote file number 2025-4135.