Loved ones upset over rash of vandalism, theft at New Brighton cemetery

NEW BRIGHTON, Pa. — Police are looking for the person responsible for stealing $5,000 worth of decorative tombstone vases from a New Brighton cemetery.

Authorities said people who have loved ones buried at the Grove Cemetery have reported the missing or damaged vases.

“I don’t understand it,” Mary Wengryn said. “I really don’t. Hopefully they catch whoever did it.”

A teary-eyed Wengryn told Channel 11’s Vince Sims that her father’s grave was missing a bronze vase.

“It makes me feel very upset and hurt that someone could do that,” Wengryn said.

Investigators said about 40 bronze vases were stolen recently, most likely to be scrapped for cash.

“The people they sell these to should be held responsible, too,” New Brighton resident Ruth Shawger said. “They have to know where they’re coming from.”

Officials said replacement vases can cost up to $500, but some companies are offering plastic options that are cheaper and not worth anything to a thief.

WPXI