WASHINGTON — Federal authorities are investigating a series of suspected acts of sabotage at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., following multiple incidents of damage at the recently renovated landmark, officials said this week. The investigation is being led by the National Park Service and U.S. Park Police, with additional federal agencies assisting as security has been increased around the site.
Officials said the investigation follows several incidents in which the pool's protective liner and sealant were intentionally damaged. The National Park Service said evidence indicated that a sharp object had been used to cut portions of the material. Authorities also reported that fence-post caps had been thrown into the pool, while other acts of vandalism were documented through surveillance footage, according to federal officials.
The Reflecting Pool recently reopened after a multimillion-dollar renovation carried out ahead of events marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Since reopening, the site has experienced maintenance issues, including algae growth and damage to sections of the liner, prompting additional repair work and heightened security measures. Federal officials have installed temporary fencing around parts of the landmark and expanded surveillance as the investigation continues.
The Department of the Interior said several individuals have been arrested or cited in connection with alleged vandalism at the site, although officials have released limited information about the specific allegations against each person. Details of the federal investigation remain unclear, and authorities have not publicly presented evidence indicating whether the incidents were coordinated.
President Donald Trump has described the incidents as acts of sabotage and called for those responsible to face severe penalties. However, Reuters reported that no definitive evidence has been publicly released to support broader claims that the damage was part of an organized campaign.
"We are seeking to identify individuals who may have information relevant to these incidents," the U.S. Park Police said in a statement released with surveillance images of a woman investigators wish to question. Authorities emphasized that the individual shown had not been accused of a crime and was being sought as part of the ongoing investigation.
As of Friday, federal officials said repairs to the Reflecting Pool were continuing while investigators reviewed surveillance footage and other evidence. Authorities have not announced additional charges, and the investigation remains active.
