CPD: Graves at Lincoln Cemetery not vandalized

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - The Columbia Police Department said Thursday evening that the graves at Lincoln Cemetery were not vandalized. The blue substance coating the site was a landscaping chemical sprayed over the area.

#ColumbiaPDSC Update: Investigators have determined that graves at the Lincoln Cemetery on Farrow Road were not intentionally vandalized. A fertilizer spray used during landscaping caused discoloration to the headstones. A criminal act did not occur. pic.twitter.com/xPZdB58DSC
— Columbia Police Dept (@ColumbiaPDSC) May 12, 2022

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Members of Leevy’s Funeral Home said Lincoln Cemetery was vandalized.

A blue substance was found on graves in the cemetery. The funeral home said a pressure washing company has been hired to help with the cleanup Thursday. Organizers explained it may take several days to clean the entire site.

A representative for the Columbia Police Department said the department is investigating the incident to see if vandalism did occur. They said previously there was an incident involving a landscaping chemical that caused discoloration.

CPD posted on social media that officers were dispatched to the cemetery Wednesday evening.

#ColumbiaPDSC officers continue to investigate reported vandalism at Lincoln Cemetery on Farrow Road. Officers were dispatched there last night. We are working w/bereaved families & a local funeral home to determine how the graves were damaged.
— Columbia Police Dept (@ColumbiaPDSC) May 12, 2022