Swastika sparks criminal investigation

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 26 — Some hateful artwork painted on the side of a private school in East Lansing sparked a criminal investigation as authorities look to track down the suspects responsible for recent vandalism.

Officials at the East Lansing Police Department said an unknown number of culprits spray-painted a swastika on an exterior wall at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School in the last 24 hours. Officers arrived at 2 p.m. yesterday to discover the graffiti but haven’t had much luck finding the culprits responsible for the mess.

“The school and the church have not received any other threatening communications aside from the graffiti,” according to a press release. “While there have not been any direct threats at this time, ELPD officers will be paying special attention to the school grounds to ensure the safety of both students and staff.”

Those with information related to the incident are encouraged to contact authorities at 517-319-6884. The motivation behind the vandalism is largely unclear; Calls to parish officials were not immediately returned.

Visit lansingcitypulse.com for continued coverage as the investigation continues.