The National Park Service plans to drain the reflecting pool after Independence Day to conduct repairs, following an incident of alleged vandalism. A court document revealed that the damage to the pool included caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp object and destruction of delaminating surface material. Approximately 70 fence post tops were also thrown into the pool. The repairs will include assessing and repairing any damage to the lining.
The incident occurred on June 9, when U.S. Park Police responded to a report of damage to the reflecting pool. The National Park Service Deputy Director for Operations stated that the damage was likely caused by a sharp knife or razor. The reflecting pool has been undergoing renovations for over two months, ordered by the President. The repairs are expected to begin after the Independence Day celebration, which is expected to draw massive crowds to Washington, D.C.
The damage to the reflecting pool is not an isolated incident, as there have been other incidents of vandalism on the National Mall. The National Mall was marked with the number "8647" and a blood-written message was found on the Washington Monument. The number "86" has been interpreted as a political threat, while "47" appears to refer to the President. An individual used their own blood to write a message on the Washington Monument, according to a police report.
The authorities have taken action in response to the alleged vandalism, with seven individuals arrested and seven others issued federal citations. Eighteen others have been filed in connection with the incident. The U.S. Park Police have also asked for the public's help in identifying a person captured on camera during an investigation into the damage to the reflecting pool. The individual appears to be kneeling next to the pool and reaching an arm into the water.
The White House has released a statement condemning the alleged vandalism, calling it "targeted sabotage by anti-American crackpots who despise a strong, proud, and beautiful country." The statement described the alleged vandals as "crazed and deranged lunatics" who have exposed their hatred for America with a cowardly attack on one of the nation's most iconic landmarks. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of the National Mall and its landmarks.
