Mansfield is reeling from a spree of vandalism that left numerous residents without their mailboxes, as police seek the public's help in tracking down the culprits. The senseless destruction unfolded early yesterday morning when the Mansfield Police Department reported mailboxes along East Street, Mill, Squire Avenue, and Ephraim Drive were found damaged.
Law enforcement indicates that the chaotic scene seems to have been crafted by an individual swinging a baseball bat, as one homeowner's security footage reveals the mailbox being destroyed. "Video from one victim shows a wannabe Juan Soto working on his off-season swing after getting out of and destroying the mailbox," the department commented on a social media post, as reported by WCVB. In a similar vein, ABC6 details that the alleged vandalism occurred around 1 a.m.
Officers have urged residents who have encountered similar incidents to come forward. "Mansfield police said if your mailbox was damaged to contact the Mansfield police at 508-261-7300 x8," according to ABC6. They are also seeking any additional footage that might shed light on the suspect's identity.
In the midst of an investigation still in its nascency, one woman whose mailbox was part of the wreckage told police she hadn't realized the extent of the damage until questioned by the police, though she did hear her dogs barking around 3 a.m., as per WCVB's interview. "This time of year you like to think about, you know, doing the right thing, helping other people, being good neighbors," she said. "So it's just a little disheartening that at this time of year someone would go around and smash everyone's mailboxes."
The Mansfield police continue their call for any eyewitnesses or those with video evidence to reach out, promising privacy and discretion. If you have any information that may assist this case, you’re encouraged to email Officer DiMascio at [email protected], as stated by ABC6.