Vandalism at McKinley Park: A Call for Public Vigilance
City officials in Marion are urging the public to assist in identifying the culprits behind the recent act of vandalism at McKinley Park. Playground equipment and restrooms were set ablaze, causing over $50,000 in damages. The incident, believed to have occurred between midnight and 1:30 a.m., saw a merry-go-round and a portion of the synthetic playground surface, as well as restrooms, severely damaged by fire.
Marion Service Director Cathy Chaffin expressed her dismay, stating, "The fact that people would want to cause this type of harm to a public playground is just beyond me." She emphasized the importance of community vigilance and encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
The park, which underwent a renovation costing over $750,000 with the first phase of playground equipment installed in 2020, will see most of the repair costs covered by insurance. However, the city will bear a $5,000 deductible.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Marion Police Department or Cathy Chaffin's office.
