Ashland Cemetery Vandalism Damages Now Exceed $250,000; Police Investigation Ongoing, Community Rallies with Support and Security Upgrades
Ashland, OH – The scope of devastation from the recent vandalism at Ashland Cemetery has now surpassed a staggering $250,000 in damages—more than double the original estimates—according to Ashland Police Division Captain Craig Kiley.
In a phone interview, Kiley confirmed that detectives are treating the case as a top investigative priority, though no solid suspects have emerged. “The appalling actions carried out by those responsible for this crime are truly beyond words,” Kiley said. “It is imperative that we stand together as a united front—both the dedicated professionals in this division and our community—as we commit ourselves to a thorough and unwavering investigation into this matter. Together, we can seek justice and ensure that such actions do not go unaddressed.”
The vandalism, described as one of the worst acts of cemetery destruction in Ashland’s history, included the toppling of more than 130 headstones—many of them hand-carved monuments dating back to the 1800s—as well as shattered windows and severe damage to a bronze military memorial at the Ashland County Fallen Heroes site.
The attack has deeply shaken the community. Social media is flooded with posts from distraught residents and out-of-state family members, many asking if their loved ones’ graves were affected and expressing frustration about the lack of arrests and the absence of a reward for information. Some have even offered to contribute to a reward fund if one is established.
Ashland Mayor Matt Miller, responding to public concern, explained that headstones on family plots with surviving relatives will likely need to be repaired at the family’s expense. “They would have to work with the cemetery to repair their monument,” he said.
Miller also addressed the growing wave of public support for restoration efforts. “A variety of organizations and individuals have been asking how they can donate, and all of us felt it was important that there be one central fund that had strict accountability measures in place,” he said. “So folks can make their tax-deductible donations out to the City of Ashland Cemetery Fund and mail them to the Mayor’s Office at 206 Claremont Ave.”
“I’m not at all surprised by the generous and big-hearted support we have already seen being poured out in our community,” Miller added. “Ashland is a wonderful place.”
Historical Society Responds
The Ashland County Historical Society released a statement condemning the vandalism and acknowledging the emotional toll on affected families.
“This act, which damaged monuments carefully selected by our community to remember their loved ones, also saw the destruction of portions of the Ashland County Fallen Heroes Memorial. This act of vandalism is unconscionable,” the statement read.
The memorial, originally dedicated on Memorial Day 2009, honors local service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. The Historical Society is now assessing the full cost of restoration and encourages those wishing to help to contact Executive Director Sara Fisher at director@ashlandhistory.org or 419-289-3111.
Ashland Elks Lodge Steps Up with $13,000 Security Commitment
In a effort to prevent future attacks, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Ashland Lodge #1360 has committed up to $13,000 toward the installation of a modern security camera system at the cemetery.
“The desecration of such a sacred space—especially one that honors our veterans—is beyond appalling,” said Chad Dickenson, Exalted Ruler of the Lodge. “Our Lodge is proud to stand with the Ashland Cemetery Association and ensure this never happens again.”
The funds will be used for high-resolution, 24/7 surveillance equipment, which will be managed by the Ashland Cemetery Association. Jim Doyle, the association’s board president, praised the Elks’ donation, calling it “a powerful statement that our community will not tolerate such cowardly destruction.”
How to Help
Community members wishing to support restoration efforts or security improvements can make donations to the City of Ashland Cemetery Fund. Checks should be made out to “City of Ashland Cemetery Fund” and mailed to:
Mayor’s Office
206 Claremont Ave.
Ashland, OH 44805
Please indicate in the memo whether funds should be designated for the military memorial or where the need is most.
The Ashland Police Division continues to request tips from the public, including surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the department directly.
As investigators work to bring those responsible to justice, the community continues to grieve, rally, and rebuild—determined not to let this crime define Ashland’s legacy of respect and remembrance.
