![Tyson Foods Plant [Photo: Food Manufacturing]](https://southarkansassun.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/iStock_1185520857__1_.5e441daa51cca-600x337.jpg)
![Silverado Senior Living Management Inc. [Photo: Los Angeles Times]](https://southarkansassun.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/download-6-4-600x337.jpg)
![China's Wuhan Institute of Virology [Photo: Nature]](https://southarkansassun.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/d41586-021-01529-3_19239608-600x337.jpg)
In a shocking and disgraceful incident, the stolen Jackie Robinson Statue was discovered dismantled and burned in a trash can fire on Tuesday morning in McAdams Park, Wichita, Kansas – just a day before what would have been Robinson’s 105th birthday. Local authorities condemned the act as “disheartening” and are actively seeking those responsible.
Photo from Google
Jackie Robinson Statue Torched and Stolen in Wichita Park – Authorities on the Hunt for Perpetrators
The Wichita Fire Department responded to a call about a fire at Garvey Park at 8:38 a.m. on Tuesday, where they found charred remnants of the Jackie Robinson Statue. Surveillance footage revealed individuals entering the park around midnight, cutting the Jackie Robinson Statue at the ankles, loading it into a pickup truck, and abandoning the feet. Estimated damages are valued at around $75,000.
Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan expressed his disappointment, describing the act as a direct reflection of the pressure investigators are putting on the perpetrators. The recovered truck has led authorities to urge those involved to surrender, with Chief Sullivan affirming that arrests will be made.
READ ALSO: Defendant Pleading Guilty When Innocent Over 10-Year-Old Murder Case
League 42’s Determination to Replace Vandalized Jackie Robinson Statue Sparks Nationwide Support
At a cost of $50,000, the Jackie Robinson Statue was built in 2021. It was created by artist John Parsons and given by League 42, a foundation dedicated to celebrating Robinson’s legacy. Bob Lutz, the creator of League 42, stated that he was determined to replace the shattered Jackie Robinson Statue because the original cast was still usable. The amount needed for the new Jackie Robinson Statue was doubled thanks to a GoFundMe campaign that surpassed its target. All 30 MLB teams and Major League Baseball have also shown their support.
Despite the setback, the community rallies together to restore this symbol of resilience and baseball history. The act of vandalism has not only drawn condemnation but has spurred a collective effort to rebuild and preserve the Jackie Robinson Statue and his legacy in Wichita.
READ ALSO: Arizona Takes Aim At Organized Retail Theft With New Bill As State Cracks Down On Criminal Networks
