U.S. Park Police are seeking the public's assistance in identifying an individual in connection with an investigation into vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The incident, categorized as "destruction of government property," allegedly occurred on Friday, June 19, at approximately 3:36 p.m. ET.
Park Police shared a video on social media that appears to show a person reaching into the Reflecting Pool and removing something from the water. The video quality is described as blurry and was filmed from a distance. Officials have not yet disclosed the source of the video.
The investigation comes amid continued statements from President Donald Trump regarding damage to the Reflecting Pool, which recently underwent a $16 million renovation. The White House has not provided evidence to substantiate claims of vandalism.
"The vandals got to it, they’ve largely been caught and are being prosecuted," President Trump stated Wednesday evening during remarks on the National Mall. He added that the pool "looks perfect already" but that repairs are ongoing.
The Interior Department and U.S. Park Police have confirmed multiple arrests and federal citations for alleged vandalism. Trump previously stated that six individuals had been arrested. He also indicated that the Reflecting Pool would be drained again around the Fourth of July for "permanent repair."