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Agassiz Speedway hit by wire theft

Volunteers working to get track up and running for Saturday's races
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Wire thieves took 'everything within reach' at the Agassiz Speedway recently

Wire thieves have hit the Agassiz Speedway, causing thousands of dollars in damage.

The theft happened sometime after the races on Sat., Aug. 17, and was discovered last Friday when crews arrived to set up for the next races.

Thieves stripped the Speedway of wiring, faucets and other materials, likely to be sold at a scrap dealer. It is estimated the damage is about $10,000, while the amount of money gained from the sale of the scrap would be just a few hundred dollars.

The Agassiz Speedway is a non-profit organization that makes just enough money to operate each year. It has become a favourite place for locals and visitors alike, and many families have volunteered at the Speedway for generations.

Mayor John Van Laerhoven said the thieves "took everything within reach."

But even though the theft has temporarily crippled the Speedway, they're not giving up.

An electrician will start repairs on Wednesday, along with volunteers cleaning up the damage done. They are hoping to have the track up and running for Saturday's races.

Leslie McKellar, the Speedway's volunteer photographer, is hoping to warn other businesses in the area about a local wire thief. They are also still hoping to find who is responsible for the theft.

There is an active file with the RCMP, and any information could be passed on through the Agassiz detachment or CrimeStoppers.

Any help would be appreciated, McKellar added. Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact Andy Bodnar at 604-795-0114.



Jessica Peters

About the Author: Jessica Peters

I began my career in 1999, covering communities across the Fraser Valley ever since.
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