Ashland Police Investigating Widespread Vandalism at Cemetery; Fallen Soldier Memorial Among Damaged Monuments
ASHLAND, OHIO – The Ashland Police Division has launched an investigation into a shocking act of vandalism discovered early Wednesday morning at the Ashland Cemetery, located at 523 West Main Street. Authorities say more than 130 gravestones were damaged, and the community’s Fallen Soldier Memorial was among the monuments defaced in what police describe as a “deliberate and extensive” attack.
Officers were dispatched to the cemetery just before 7 a.m. after Thomas, a maintenance supervisor for the cemetery, arrived at work and discovered the destruction. According to the police report, Thomas immediately contacted police after finding the Fallen Soldier Memorial near the cemetery entrance had been vandalized overnight.
“When I arrived on scene, I spoke with Tom, who confirmed that the damage had to have occurred sometime overnight, as there was no damage to the monument on Tuesday,” an officer stated in the report. “During the investigation, we located 133 gravestones that were tipped over or broken, along with damage to the bronze statue.” The total estimated damage is believed to exceed $100,000.
The Ashland Police Division took to Facebook shortly after responding to the scene, calling on the public for assistance.
“We are looking for anyone with information on a vandalism that occurred last night at the Fallen Military Memorial located at the Ashland Cemetery,” the department wrote. “If you have any information, please contact Officer Zeisler at (419) 289-3639.”
The damage has stirred strong emotions in the community. Veterans who visited the scene expressed heartbreak and outrage over the desecration of memorials and graves. One veteran broke down in tears, while others voiced their frustration and demand for accountability.
“Police need to make an example of these thugs,” one veteran stated.
Community members Rob and Linda Dunivan also stepped forward to help, capturing photos of the damage and sharing them with the public in hopes of raising awareness and helping identify those responsible.
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with surveillance footage from the area or who may have seen suspicious activity in or around the cemetery overnight is urged to contact Ashland Police.
“This is not just property damage,” a local resident commented on social media. “This is a disgrace to our veterans, our history, and our community.”
