Queer advocate calls tire slashing 'sad' and 'scary' as OPP investigate
West Lorne resident says neighbours have supported her with offers to help fix vehicle
The victim of a crime that Ontario Provincial Police are investigating as hate-motivated says she's spent hundreds of dollars replacing car tires and installing alarm systems at her home in West Lorne.
Karen Bowery, who identifies as queer and performs in drag, said her tires have been slashed four times in the last two months, her taillight and mirrors smashed, and her vehicle has been vandalized with spray paint.
OPP said Tuesday they're investigating the incidents that occurred between June 14 and July 24. It marks a series of investigations in southwestern Ontario, with others reporting property damage in recent months, for what they believe is their sexual orientation.
"After the first time, I was pretty upset, but I figured I would deal with it and move on with my life. But then it just kept happening. The bills keep adding up, not to mention the emotional toll," Bowery said.
"It's really sad," the single mother explained, noting her child is also shaken by the damage. She calls the attacks homophobic, noting that no one else on her street has been targeted.
"The OPP takes hate/bias-motivated investigations seriously," the police service wrote in a statement. "The OPP will continue to collaborate with community partners to provide supports to those who are victimized by hate/bias motivated incidents."
'Makes a world of difference'
Bowery estimates she's spent almost $1,000 replacing her tires and fixing her car, some of which has been paid for with donations from the community.
She's lived in West Lorne, a town southwest of London, her whole life, and said her neighbours are supportive of the LGBTQ community and her family.
"I think a lot of the straight community has really stepped up for me, as well [as the queer community]. Every time my tires got damaged, people stepped up and either donated money or offered services to get them switched out. That really makes a world of difference," Bowery said.
Still, she can't help but feel anxious, waking up in the night to check the security footage, and worrying about whether the acts of vandalism will escalate.
She described seeing a male figure on the video footage, with his face obscured. In one instance, she believes the person was wearing what looked like a motorcycle helmet. CBC News has not viewed the footage.
OPP are asking anyone with information to contact them or Crime Stoppers, if they want to remain anonymous.