Vandals have shattered the peace at Old Memphis Cemetery in Palmetto, with deputies reporting that 17 gravesites were damaged in a recent spree that left broken headstones, toppled markers, spray paint and busted concrete scattered across the historic burial ground. Family members and local caretakers who came upon the damage this week described the scene as heartbreaking. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office believes the vandalism happened within the past few weeks and has opened an investigation.
According to WTSP, deputies counted 17 affected gravesites, noting spray painted stones, broken and knocked down headstones and damage to concrete around the plots. Investigators say no arrests have been made as they continue to comb the area for clues.
What deputies are asking
The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is urging anyone who might have seen or recorded anything unusual near 25th Street West in recent weeks to speak up. Residents and businesses are asked to review any security footage or photos that could show suspicious activity.
Tips can be reported by calling the sheriff's office non emergency line at (941) 747 3011. Information can also be shared anonymously with Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 1 866 634 TIPS or online through the Crime Stoppers website.
Old Memphis Cemetery's history
Old Memphis Cemetery dates back to the early 1900s and served for decades as a burial ground for African American residents of the Memphis neighborhood. The oldest marked grave on site is from 1907. State historical records indicate the property was taken into county care as an abandoned cemetery in 1988, according to Florida Historical Markers. County cemetery listings place the location at 202 W. 25th Street in Palmetto, per the state cemetery database.
What happens next
Investigators plan to continue canvassing Old Memphis Cemetery and the surrounding area while checking for any available surveillance footage. Deputies are asking neighbors and nearby businesses to flag anything out of the ordinary that might show when or how the vandals struck.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff's office or Crime Stoppers as the case moves forward. Authorities have not released any details about possible suspects, and the investigation remains active, according to WTSP.
