Video shows suspects using grinder to cut steering wheel lock during attempted vehicle theft

The number of vehicles stolen across Canada last year dropped by 18 per cent over the year before, following a crackdown on auto theft. Pat Foran reports.

Following a crackdown on auto theft, the number of vehicles stolen across Canada last year dropped by 18 percent over the year before.

While progress is being made, auto theft still remains a huge problem, as there were still 47,000 thefts reported in 2025, which continues to put pressure on car insurance premiums.

In the case where your vehicle wasn’t stolen, it can still be damaged during an attempted car theft.

One owner of a 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is sharing his story after his pickup truck was almost stolen for a second time.

“I have the immobilizer, the dash camera, I have the tag system on it, and I’ve pretty much protected myself as much as I can,” said Bart Keller, of Alliston, Ont.

Along with the latest in security equipment, he also told CTV News he has video cameras installed inside the truck.

The first time the truck was almost stolen, Keller said it took place in his driveway.

His camera caught the alleged thieves using a grinder to cut through a steering wheel lock.

Keller told CTV News he has an immobilizer installed, preventing thieves from driving away with his pickup truck.

In the video shared with CTV News, within five minutes of the attempt to steal the vehicle, the individual inside the pickup truck gave up and left.

“When they did that, the sparks went everywhere inside the car. The windshield, the roof. There was quite a bit of damage done there,” said Keller.

However, the second attempt took place inside a parking lot while he and his family visited the cinema to watch a movie.

The thieves broke his windows and used a hacksaw.

“They cut through the steering wheel, which is a bit of a problem because it’s a very expensive steering wheel with the airbag and all the media (controls) on it, right?” Keller said.

Keller’s video showed one of the alleged suspects. He told CTV News he handed the video to the Peel Regional Police Service, and a suspect was arrested two days later.

“I’m really happy to know they were apprehended and charges are pending,” Keller said.

When CTV News reached out to the Peel Regional Police Service, a spokesperson stated they couldn’t comment on this matter as the case is before the courts.

Keller told CTV News that even though his truck was not stolen, the damage caused still requires thousands of dollars in repairs.

“I just hope this doesn’t keep happening; we need to change this,” Keller said.

He also recommended that vehicle owners invest in security equipment to prevent vehicles from being stolen.

“I want consumers to protect themselves. Get yourself an immobilizer. Get the extra add-ons because I’ve saved my vehicle twice already,” said Keller.