ST PAUL, Minn. — St. Paul police are working to determine who is responsible for an expensive act of vandalism involving the damage and destruction of dozens of trees in the city.
The St. Paul Parks and Recreation Department says approximately 60 trees were harmed along Shepard Road, including several that were thrown into the nearby Mississippi River.
The trees were planted just last month by local high school students in partnership with the nonprofit Tree Trust over MEA break. St. Paul Parks and Rec believes the damage occurred overnight, and puts damage and loss estimates at nearly $40,000.
"While we are disappointed in this act and the negative impact it has on the neighboring community and our urban forest, we are working closely with Tree Trust to determine next steps for replacing the damaged trees," said a statement from the park and rec department.
Police confirm they are investigating the incident.