St. Pete pride mural vandalized again after car does donuts in intersection
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A pride mural painted in a St. Petersburg intersection was vandalized on Wednesday for the second time in a week after a car did donuts, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department.
The crime is leaving some LGBTQ+ community members worried as pride month quickly approaches.
Ride ‘Em Cowboy bartender Sterling Long was dismayed to walk out of his bar to see tire skid marks in circles over Central Ave’s pride mural.
“I was actually very shocked and devastated that this happened, because they just repainted this,” he explained. “The city spent a lot of money [on] this, and especially so close to pride, I was very upset somebody would do this.”
“I think we all need to be careful, everyone apart of the LGBTQ, including myself,” he added.
Surveillance video released by police shows a blue two-door vehicle spinning out in the intersection at 2500 Central Avenue, leaving tire marks on the mural, police said.
Clearwater man accused of vandalizing LGBTQ+ pride mural nearly misses arraignment
On May 17, a truck also left tire marks on the mural by accelerating through the intersection, police said.
Police do not believe the incidents are related,.
So how much will the city have to pay to repair the mural?
“More than $1,000,” St. Petersburg Police Department public information officer Yolanda Fernandez said. “About $1,100 to repair it and to paint over it and remove all of those marks.”
“So, then, it elevates this criminal mischief from a misdemeanor to a felony,” she continued.
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch released the following statement on social media.
“In light of the recent vandalism targeting our Progressive Pride flag mural, I want to emphasize that there is no place for hate in St. Petersburg. We stand united in valuing and appreciating every resident, regardless of their orientation, gender identity, or expression. Our differences make St. Pete the vibrant and diverse community we cherish.
The flag mural will be cleaned and refreshed in time for Pride Month. As we look forward to the Pride celebrations, let’s continue to spread the message of love and acceptance even further. Join us as we kick off the festivities with our Pride flag raising ceremony at City Hall on Friday, May 31. Together, we can show that love always wins.”Mayor Ken Welch
Anyone with information about the blue vehicle is asked to call 727-893-7780.
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