Vandals paint vulgar images, words on church property in Oakmont
Oakmont police continue to investigate a graffiti incident that occurred last week on a church property in Oakmont.
“It contained homophobic images and words,” said Oakmont police Chief Michael Ford.
Black paint currently covers a large section of a mural fence on the grounds of Oakmont United Methodist Church at 419 Maryland Ave.
Church officials reported the vandalism to authorities Thursday, Ford said.
Ford said a church trustee found the obscene graffiti painted on the fence near the parking lot and rear entrance to the church sometime Wednesday. Church officials decided to paint over the offensive graffiti with black paint Friday.
That portion of the fence previously was part of a colorful space-themed mural.
Church officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Ford is asking the public to remain watchful.
“Anybody with information, please come forward,” he said. “Be vigilant and report anything suspicious.”
No arrests had been made as of Monday evening, Ford said.
Ford said he was unaware of any other vandalism in the borough.
To report information on the vandalism, call Oakmont police at 412-826-1578.
Joyce Hanz is a native of Charleston, S.C. and is a features reporter covering the Pittsburgh region. She majored in media arts and graduated from the University of South Carolina. She can be reached at jhanz@triblive.com
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