Vandals Cut Sealant at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Leave ‘86 47’ Mark
The newly restored Reflecting Pool by the Lincoln Memorial was hit by vandalism after someone damaged the blue sealant meant to help keep the water looking clear and reflective. The pool had just reopened earlier this month after a renovation that was meant to fix long-running problems with the basin.
The project was aimed at cleaning up a structure that has dealt with leaks, sinking, and a generally rough appearance over the years. Before the latest work, the water basin had become known for a dull green look instead of the mirror-like surface people expect from one of Washington’s most recognizable landmarks.
Independent journalist Emily Miller said a man was arrested after jumping into the pool and cutting out a “huge piece” of the sealant.
https://x.com/emilymiller/status/2068059326753771997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Miller also said, “He grabbed the hose that female National Park Service workers were using to clear the algae,” before Park Police moved in and detained him.
https://x.com/emilymiller/status/2068084153233326210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Separately, Nick Sortor reported that U.S. Park Police are investigating vandalism on the sealant that reads “86 47.” The phrase has drawn attention in other incidents around the National Mall as well, and authorities have not said whether they believe the latest marking was left by the same person or connected to earlier cases.
Sortor said the writing was found while walking the edge of the pool and added, “This BS needs to end.”
https://x.com/nicksortor/status/2067796010970087890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
The renewed pool had been presented as a cleaner, brighter feature for one of the city’s busiest public spaces. Now it is back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons, with investigators looking at both the physical damage and the message left behind.