By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities in Hudson County are working to track down an individual who vandalized a sacred monument at Holy Cross Church on Tuesday evening, leaving the local community shocked and concerned.
Harrison Police officials said the incident occurred on December 3, 2024, at approximately 5 p.m.
Harrison police officers responded to a report of criminal mischief at the 300 block of Harrison Avenue, where the church is located.
Upon arriving at the scene, Sergeant Lecca and Officer Delgado spoke with the church’s priest, who reported the destruction of a cherished statue of Our Lady of Fatima.
According to the priest, a friend had alerted him to the damage after noticing the statue was no longer on its pedestal during a drive through the area.
The Harrison Police Department’s Detective Bureau reviewed surveillance footage from the surrounding area and pieced together the suspect’s actions.
The video shows an individual, dressed in black pants, a black jacket, and carrying a mint green backpack, approaching the church shortly after 12:30 p.m.
The footage captures the suspect walking up to the statue, placing a hand on it, and scanning the area for witnesses.
Moments later, the individual steps behind the monument and repeatedly leans against it in an effort to push it over.
Despite initial failed attempts, the vandal leaves momentarily but soon returns to the church property.
On the second approach, the individual delivers a final shove to the statue, sending it crashing to the ground and shattering it into pieces.
The suspect then walks eastward along Harrison Avenue, leaving the scene of destruction behind.
The blatant act of desecration has sparked outrage and sorrow among churchgoers and residents, as the Fatima statue held significant spiritual and cultural value for the community.
Police have not yet identified the suspect and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The incident highlights growing concerns over acts of vandalism targeting sacred spaces and community landmarks.
Residents remain on edge.