New Jersey

Vandal Spray Paints Swastikas at NJ Park Often Visited by Members of Jewish Community

An investigation is underway after a vandal or vandals spray painted swastikas at a New Jersey park.

On Monday a concerned citizen reported to police that swastikas had been spray painted at Echo Lake Park on 1205 Maxim Southard Road in Howell, New Jersey and later provided photos of the vandalism. Officials say Echo Lake Park is often visited by members of the Jewish community and attracts many people each day.

Howell Police responded to the park and found nine swastikas spray painted in white near the horseshoe pits on the backboards and benches located around 300 feet from the roadway and parking lot. Investigators also say they found random, non-distinct spray paint on the gazebo floor and they believe the vandalism occurred sometime within the past week.

The Howell Township Department of Public Works painted over the vandalism Monday though the investigation continues and police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the person or people responsible.

If you have any information on the incident, please call Detective Sergeant Christian Antunez #243 at 732-938-4575 ext. 2883 or email him at cantunez@howellpolice.org.

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