Canadian flag flapping in the breeze. © Can Stock Photo / supertrampCanadian flag flapping in the breeze. © Can Stock Photo / supertramp
Sarnia

Large Canadian flag stolen near Hwy. 402 in Sarnia

Sarnia police are investigating the theft of a giant Canadian flag between the Quinn Drive Wal-Mart and Highway 402.

Police said it happened in the overnight hours between July 31 and August 1. It's alleged that thieves broke into a barricaded area before lowering and making off with the flag, which is owned by Smart Centres.

Wyoming Tree Services manage and look after the flag. Owner Tim Wilkins said it cost over $4,000.

"It's 30 feet tall and 40 feet long so it's kind of a hard flag to even move around. Once you do take it down, it usually takes a couple of people just to carry it. It's something that's definitely noticeable trying to move around in a vehicle, that's for sure."

Wilkins expressed disappointment after learning about the theft from his staff Monday morning.

"You know what, even in the challenging times that we're having over the last few years we still live in pretty great country, and I think that's a pretty low blow when someone removes a symbol like that."

Wilkins said they were planning to have a new flag put up this week and that they probably have about three of them on inventory.

"The wind does create the need for repairs. We do repair them quite frequently right up until they become too faded. Once they get to be too faded then we do replace them with a new one."

Wilkins said the flag has been flying at the site since the Wal-Mart opened over a decade ago.

If anyone has any information they are asked to call Cst. Connor Maxim at 519-344-8861, extension 6258, or Sarnia Lambton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Read More Local Stories