UPDATE: RCMP have released photos of the CCTV footage that appears to show two individuals spray painting the rainbow crosswalk.
Photo Credit: Vanderhoof RCMP
Zoomed-in image of the two individualsEARLIER: VANDERHOOF—Mounties in Vanderhoof are investigating a report of mischief to property that took place on October 19, 2024.
RCMP say that the rainbow crosswalk located on Victoria Street and Bute Ave was spray painted overnight to read in neon orange “Speak Truth” and “Save the Kids”. The crosswalk is located just outside Nechako Valley Secondary School.
This is not the first incident this year involving anti-LGBTQ+ defacement of property in Vanderhoof. In June, an unknown individual had cut up more than 20 “share the love” pride banners.
In a Facebook post Vanderhoof Mayor Kevin Moutray calls the crosswalk defacement a “hate crime.”
Credit: Kevin Moutray“There aren’t words to describe my sadness and disgust with the hate crime at the rainbow crosswalk overnight,” comments Moutray. “This is targeted hate and does not represent who we are as a community. We are welcoming, inclusive, diverse and curious about others. If there is a truth, that’s it!”
CCTV footage from the area was recorded at around 12:00 a.m. and showed two unknown, possibly male, individuals in dark clothing and light shoes. RCMP say those individuals might be responsible, adding that they were last seen walking away, eastbound on Victoria Street E.
RCMP say they will be releasing the CCTV footage soon in hopes that the public can come forward to help solve the crime. If you have any information you are asked to call Vanderhoof RCMP at 250-567-2222.
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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com
