The new sign bearing Officer Austin Machitar’s name, which was defaced days after its unveiling (Image from @Mayor Todd Gloria via X)
Authorities sought Thursday to determine who defaced a Clairemont-area park dedicated last weekend to a San Diego police officer who died in the line of duty last year.
The felony vandalism at Austin Machitar Memorial Park caused an estimated $100,000 worth of losses and infuriated the local law enforcement community and civic leaders.
The crime, discovered Thursday, includes graffiti on a concrete memorial, marquee signs, sidewalks and the nearby recreation center, as well as damage to plants and trees. It came four days after city officials rechristened the park in honor of Machitar, 30, who was killed by a speeding driver fleeing a traffic stop. His partner survived the Aug. 26, 2024 crash.
“I am furious that someone would vandalize and desecrate a memorial to a hero who gave his life in service of our city,” Mayor Todd Gloria said, adding that “the San Diego Police Department will use every available resource to find those responsible and hold them fully accountable for this crime.”
The concrete monument bearing the new name of the Bannock Avenue park was so badly marred it will have to be replaced, according to city officials.
“This was more than vandalism – it was disrespect to the officers who protect this city,” SDPD Chief Scott Wahl said.
“Too much rhetoric today aims to divide police from the communities we serve. We know this does not reflect the values of the broader San Diego community, and we ask our residents to continue showing the support that outshines this kind of negativity toward our officers who serve with courage and professionalism every day.”
San Diego County Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,500 reward for information leading to an arrest in the case. Anyone who might be able to help investigators is asked to contact the agency at 888-580-8477 or online. Tipsters may remain anonymous.
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