Bellevue authorities are calling upon the public to assist in identifying a person accused of consistent vandalism targeting an LGBTQ+ Pride art installation, illuminating a concerning pattern of disregard for both community values and public safety.
Reported incidents, the first of which took place on July 14, involve a young male in a silver or gray BMW sedan, repeatedly performing burnouts over the artwork located near Bellevue's Downtown Park. The Bellevue Police provided details of the episodes, that not only defaced the art piece but put in danger any bystanders. In one account, the action occurred in broad daylight amidst vehicle and pedestrian traffic, according to the Bellevue Beat Blog.
The first vandalism incident caught by the traffic camera at NE 1st Street and 102nd Avenue NE showed the suspect allegedly spinning the vehicle 720-degrees over the art. With the damage from this act alone estimated at around $3,200 by the City of Bellevue’s Transportation Department. Subsequent incidents on September 7 and September 15 showed similar incident, with the individual performing burnouts amid traffic, without regard to the sanctity of the spot or safety of pedestrians around. The resulting damage from these two offenses amounted to approximately $10,337 combined.
Captured images of the BMW and snippets of the suspect's identity have been released in hopes that residents might aid in apprehending the individual responsible. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, as the repetitive nature of these attacks suggests an act of vandalism and a targeted message against the symbol of pride Shan represented. The civic response will not only address the immediate offenses but stand as a testament to the city's stance against such hate-driven defacement.
