If you’ve visited Harrison Park to take in the glow of the Festival of Northern Lights, police and organizers are now asking for your help after a donation box was stolen in the early morning hours. The Owen Sound Police Service says officers are investigating after an someone stole the Festival of Northern Lights donation box from Harrison Park in the early morning hours on Monday. Festival organizers say the thief used tools to forcibly remove it from the park. “On Monday morning at 1:37 a.m., an individual stole our donation box from Harrison Park,” the organization stated in a social media post, adding that the mailbox was pried loose. Organizers say the entire incident was caught on video. “And the footage has been provided to Owen Sound Police Services as part of a police report.” Images from that footage have also been shared publicly in hopes that someone may recognize the person involved. Police are now asking anyone with information to come forward, saying public tips could help identify the suspect and move the investigation forward. For festival organizers, the theft is especially frustrating because it’s not the first time it has happened. “As this is the second theft of our donation box, we will no longer be using a physical donation box,” the organization added. Instead, the Festival of Northern Lights says it will continue to accept donations electronically for those who still want to support the event. “As a not-for-profit organization, we rely on sponsors and donations to build and maintain our displays, and we are very thankful for the generosity of our community,” organizers note. Despite the setback, organizers say they’re choosing to focus on the bigger picture. “Let’s not give in to the negativity,” the group said, noting the festival is meant to “bring joy and light to the dark nights of winter.” They also thanked the community for its continued support, calling Owen Sound “amazing” and emphasizing that the event is about togetherness. “It’s about friends, family and community,” the statement said. “Stuff happens. We move on together and get better.” Owen Sound police say the investigation is ongoing and encourage anyone with information to contact the police service or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
