Theft of valuable violin investigated by RCMP

RCMP are asking the public to be on the lookout for a more than 180-year old violin that was recently stolen in Kelowna.

The theft of the valuable item is believed to have taken place during the early hours of Thursday, Aug. 3, following a performance by the victim.

“The incident likely occurred in the vicinity of the lane behind the 700 Block of Wilson Avenue,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera said. “Unfortunately, no surveillance footage is available from the location.”

Della-Paolera said after the theft, the victim spent several days retracing their steps, hoping to recover the stolen instrument.

“This violin holds not only significant monetary value but also immense sentimental value. Our aim is to reunite it with its rightful owner,” the constable said.

The stolen violin was made in the 1840s (submitted photo/RCMP)

The instrument dates back to the 1840s. It features a distinctive one-piece back and includes three bows, two black and one red. The violin also has a microphone pickup jack and a single gold fine tuner.

It was housed in silver BAM case crafted from carbon fibre, which is recognizable by its backpack straps and stickers from various countries the owner has visited.

Anyone with information on the item is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at (250) 762-3300, referring to file number 2023-46714. To remain anonymous, reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net.