Calgary police say they are aware of multiple phone thefts reported at the Calgary Stampede grounds and nearby Stampede-related events in recent days.
Officials are warning visitors to stay alert, secure their belongings and report suspicious activity.
Phones Reported Stolen at Stampede Grounds
Acting Sgt. Jon Pierce said police know of at least three phones stolen at the Stampede grounds.
That includes two phones reportedly taken at Nashville North on Saturday.
Police are also aware of two additional thefts reported at the Badlands Music Festival.
Police Warn About Distraction Tactics
Pierce said people stealing phones may try to distract victims before taking their devices.
He said thieves might bump into someone, ask for the time or use another tactic to draw attention away.
Police are encouraging visitors to trust their instincts if something feels wrong.
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Woman Says Phone Was Stolen at Nashville North
Jaiden Hein said she was attending a Nashville North concert with friends when she believes someone picked her pocket and stole her phone.
She said she and others began searching the ground, and several other women nearby said their phones had also been stolen.
Hein said the experience has left her stressed and uncomfortable because of the possibility that someone may have access to her personal information.
Victims Share Warnings Online
Hein is one of several people who have posted on social media to warn others about the thefts.
Many users have also shared information about where their stolen phones appeared to be located.
Some people said that when they tried to ping their devices, the location showed Cochrane, Alberta.
Phones Reportedly Pinged in Cochrane
Hein said her phone appeared to ping near a hotel in Cochrane, the same area where other stolen phones were reportedly detected.
However, she said the location was no longer live, meaning the phone could now be somewhere else.
Police said they are aware of at least two phones that pinged in Cochrane and are now working with Cochrane RCMP.
Badlands Music Festival Responds
In a statement, the Badlands Music Festival said it is aware of phone thefts during Stampede-related events.
The festival said it is working closely with police on-site.
Organizers said guest safety and security remain a top priority and encouraged attendees to stay aware of their surroundings, keep belongings secure and report suspicious activity to staff or police.
Calgary Stampede Says Incidents Are Limited
Kerry Blizard with the Calgary Stampede said officials are also aware of the thefts.
She said that since this year’s event opened, only a small number of similar incidents have been reported.
Blizard said most people come to the Stampede to enjoy themselves, but occasionally someone takes advantage of the situation and ruins the experience for others.
Safety Tips for Stampede Visitors
The Calgary Stampede is advising guests to keep phones in safer locations.
Visitors are encouraged to carry phones in front pockets, tuck them into boots or use a crossbody bag.
These steps can make it harder for thieves to access personal belongings in crowded areas.
How to Report a Theft
Anyone who has had property stolen at the Stampede grounds is asked to report it to on-site police.
Police are located on the upper floor of the Big Four Building.
Victims can also call 403-261-0595 or 911.
Calgary police and Stampede officials are warning visitors to be cautious after several phones were reported stolen at Stampede-related events.
With some stolen devices reportedly pinging in Cochrane, police are working with RCMP while reminding guests to secure their phones, stay alert in crowds and report thefts quickly.
