The Centralia Police Department is investigating what it called “an act of malicious vandalism” to the Christmas light displays in Borst Park.
The lights had been set up by Centralia City Parks employees over a period of days in advance of the annual Borst Lights event, which goes beyond providing a visual holiday spectacle and helps support local non-profits with fundraising and food donations.
Police say the unknown individuals damaged approximately one-third of the displays sometime overnight between Tuesday, Nov. 25, and Wednesday, Nov. 26.
According to police, the city parks employees were “deeply disappointed” to discover the damage, which is estimated to range from $20,000 to $30,000.
The department said it is increasing its patrols in and around the park in response.
Despite the setback, organizers are committed to hosting the event as planned.
“We are pleased to report that, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of Centralia City Parks staff, most of the damaged displays have been repaired or replaced,” a news release stated.
The drive-thru light display remains scheduled to open the evening of Friday, Dec. 5, and will run from 5 and 9 p.m each evening through Dec. 25.
The cost is $7 per car and $10 for small buses. Large buses are not permitted.
“We thank our City Parks team for their rapid response and dedication in ensuring Borst Lights will shine brightly for another Christmas season,” the release stated.
In the meantime, the Centralia Police Department is asking anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
To report information, call the Centralia Police Department during business hours at 360-330-7680 or contact the non-emergency dispatch line at 360-740-1105.
