Bike Patrol unearths long-lost stolen bike

May 29, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

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Nanaimo file # 2026-16405

“I couldn’t believe it — I thought we would never see it again.” These were just the comments of Ashley Westphal when Cst. Ian George of the Nanaimo RCMP Bike Patrol called to let her know her son’s stolen bike had been found.

Westphal told officers that in January of this year, her garage had been broken into. Three of her bikes, along with her prized Yeti mug, were stolen. When she told her kids, they were devastated. With little time to feel sorry for the loss, she got to work calling local bike shops. She gathered up serial numbers and details for the stolen bikes, then reported the theft to the police. Westphal waited and waited for good news, but unfortunately, nothing came.

Fast forward to May 27, 2026, when Bike Patrol officers were out doing what they do best — searching for and finding stolen bikes. The officers were riding past a residence on Selby Street, known for nefarious activities such as stolen property and illegal drugs. Sure enough, out front and in plain view, was a men’s Marin Bobcat bicycle. The serial number was checked, and Bingo, they got a hit — the bike was reported stolen in January by none other than Ashley Westphal.

Officers followed up with residents of the property, but no one claimed knowledge of the bike or where it came from.  Officers seized it for safekeeping. Later that same day, Westphal was called and attended to the detachment, where she gladly posed for a photo with the bike and Cst George.

Westphal said, “We are so appreciative of the efforts of the police, from the officer who took my original report to the Bike Patrol. My son will be elated to have his prized bike returned, and just in time for him to hit the trails over summer break.”

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