Stolen Car Leaves Family Desperate for Their Missing Dog
A family vacation to Montreal took a heartbreaking turn when their car was stolen from a notorious mall parking lot, leaving behind a beloved four-legged companion. While the vehicle has since been recovered, the DiRago family is still desperately searching for their tiny dog, Bella.
The family from Ontario traveled to Montreal for their grandson’s hockey tournament, eager to share in the excitement and create lasting memories. Noirey they hoped for a fun-filled weekend quickly dissolved into a nightmare on Saturday when they returned to the Fairview Point Claire parking lot to find their silver Toyota RAV4 missing. To make matters worse, their precious 4-month-old Bella, a small, short-haired husky/chihuahua mix, was inside.
A Parent’s Nightmare
“I actually hope that whoever had to steal a car decides they have to do the right thing and take care of her if they have her,” said Naomi DiRago, her voice filled with anguish.
“Our hearts were really, really sore at that time, for sure,” added her husband, Rocco DiRago. “We knew we weren’t going to be very long, so we knew she would be safe, and we parked at the outskirts of the parking lot so we weren’t going to get hit by another car.”
This was no ordinary parking lot. Fairview Point Claire is the province’s undisputed champion for stolen vehicles, according to crime data analyzed by CTV News in November. This year alone, a staggering 156 cars have been reported pilfered from its expanses.
The DiRagos are just the latest victims in a disturbing trend, leaving them facing an agonizing wait with little hope of a happy reunion with their furry family member. They describe Bella as a petite pup weighing just four and a half kilograms, with a distinctive red collar.
Police Urge Security Measures
Montreal police confirmed they have recovered the stolen vehicle. However, there was no sign of Bella. “We’re hopeful. This is a time of hope, this time of year,” said Naomi DiRago, clinging to the possibility of a Christmas miracle.
SPVM spokesperson Mariane Allaire Morin offered practical advice for preventing similar vehicular tragedies in the future.
“You can have the anti-theft bar. It can be dissuasive or slow down the criminals. You can also have a protector for your smart key,” she advised.
In the meantime, the DiRago family continues their desperate search, hoping that someone, somewhere, will recognize Bella and bring her home. They are urging anyone with information to contact them by email at [email protected].
What breed of dog was stolen from the DiRago family’s car?
## Interview for “Stolen Car Leaves Family Desperate for Their Missing Dog”
**(Host)**: Joining us today is Alex Reed, a representative of the DiRago family whose heartbreaking story has been making headlines. Thank you for speaking with us during this difficult time.
**(Alex Reed)**: Thank you for having me.
**(Host)**: Can you tell us a little about what happened?
**(Alex Reed)**: Our family was in Montreal for our grandson’s hockey tournament. We were all so excited to be there and support him. On Saturday, we parked our car at the Fairview Point Claire mall and went to watch him play. When we returned, we were horrified to discover our car was gone.
**(Host)**: That’s terrible. I can only imagine the panic you must have felt.
**(Alex Reed)**: It was a nightmare. But the worst part is, our little dog Bella was still inside the car. She’s only four months old, a tiny husky/chihuahua mix. We’re just devastated that she’s missing.
**(Host)**: The police recovered the stolen vehicle. Do you have any leads on Bella’s whereabouts?
**(Alex Reed)**: The car was found, thankfully, but Bella wasn’t inside. We’re desperately searching for her. We’ve put up posters, contacted local shelters, and posted on social media. We’re just praying someone will find her and bring her home safely.
**(Host)**: What would you say to the person who took Bella?
**(Alex Reed)**: I know stealing a car is a serious crime, but please, if you have any information about Bella, or if you took her, please just bring her back to us. She’s a beloved member of our family and we miss her terribly.
**(Host)**: Our thoughts are with the DiRago family. We hope Bella is found safe and sound very soon. For anyone with information about Bella’s whereabouts, please contact the [Relevant authorities].
**(Alex Reed)**: Thank you.
**(Host)**: Thank you for sharing your story with us.
