Vancouve paddle board business’ van recovered with online help

A Vancouver paddle board business is asking for help locating items missing from a company van that was allegedly stolen and swiftly found with the help of social media.

Stand up Paddle Vancouver’s cargo van filled with thousands of dollars worth of equipment was allegedly stolen from a secure parking garage Friday morning. Adam Schell and his wife Kristy, co-owners of the mobile business, reported the theft to police immediately but also took to Reddit, asking Lower Mainland residents to look out for the uniquely decorated vehicle.

In less than an hour, the owners received a comment on the Reddit post, saying the van had been spotted by someone out walking their dog.

“It is one thing to see it on a social media channel; it’s another thing when you finally get the call from the police confirming they have your vehicle, that it’s in good shape, still driveable, and they’re going to have it towed somewhere, so you’re actually going to get it back — I was absolutely beside myself,” said Adam.

After the van was reported missing, the Schells discovered the side door to the parking garage had also been broken into.

“It was absolutely gut-wrenching to think that — number one: someone has stolen something of yours, but also they had planned it out and looked around and knew, probably, what they were going for,” said Adam.

While the couple is happy to have the van back, many items stored within were missing when the vehicle was returned. They are asking people in the market for paddle boards and paddle board equipment to keep an eye out for what could possibly be their company wares.

Adam notes some especially valuable items should be fairly conspicuous on the local market.

“Some of the hardboards, for instance, like Jimmy Lewis, which is a particular shaper in Maui where we get those boards from — and a bright yellow with a grey strip right down the middle of it: it’s called a destroyer MP; it’s a bit of a unique board.”

If you recognize any of the equipment, the company asks that you call the Vancouver Police Department non-emergency line.