Police have released a clue they hope will help lead to catching the suspect involved in the home invasions and robberies of Alberni seniors.
According to RCMP Cpl. Jen Allan, two specific coins were stolen from the residence of an Alberni senior who was robbed on Tuesday, Jan. 24.
CHECK News has since confirmed that the victim was 84-year-old Ed Schutte.
The coins are fifty-cent pieces. Allan wasn’t sure what date was on the coins, but said that they are Canadian and are unique in size and shape. “They were taken with along with other loose coins,” Allan said. “They’re no longer in circulation and are a rarity.”
Police want the public to be vigilant about keeping their eye out for them. Local businesses are also asked to contact RCMP if someone attempts to use the coins.
In an interview with CHEK News, Schutte said that the suspect pushed him down and held a knife to his throat.
Allan would not say if a knife was used in the incident involving Marvin Hankins, 75, who was found dead in his Fourth Avenue home on Jan. 13. “I can’t confirm if a knife was used, those details are only known to investigators.”
Police are still investigating those two incidents, as well as the Jan. 8 one involving the home invasion and robbery of Reino Koivunen, 83.
“Investigators are following up on different leads and the investigation is progressing,” Allan said.
Police have established a tip line for information on the incidents: 250-724-8949, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-247-8477.
reporter@albernivalleynews.com