St. Catharines Car Vandalized With Hate Symbols, Windows Smashed, Police Say
Niagara police are investigating as a hate-motivated crime after a car on Oakdale Avenue in St. Catharines was spray-painted with hate symbols and had windows broken.
Crime Canada newsroomPublished
Niagara Regional Police are investigating a hate-motivated crime after a car was intentionally damaged on Oakdale Avenue in St. Catharines on Saturday, October 31, 2026, police said.
Uniform officers from 1 District, which covers St. Catharines and Thorold, opened the investigation that day. According to police, the vehicle, a grey 2011 Volkswagen Passat, had several windows broken, and hate symbols had been spray-painted on its sides.
Car seized for forensic examination
Police said the car was seized so it could be examined by the service's Forensic Services Unit.
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The 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau has since taken over the case and is treating it as a hate-motivated crime, police said. The service's Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Unit has been told about the incident and will be in contact with the victim.
Social media post under review
Police said they are aware of a post about the incident that is circulating on social media. That post is being reviewed as part of the investigation.
No arrests or charges have been announced.
How to contact police
Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward:
- Niagara Regional Police Service: (905) 688-4111, option 3, extension 1009728
- Anonymous tip line: 289-248-1058
- Incident number: 26-137574
About these reports
This article is based on the official statement linked below. Charges are allegations; everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Official source: Niagara Regional Police Service
