Police Investigate Anti-Columbus Day Vandalism In South Philadelphia
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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Police are investigating two cases of anti-Columbus Day vandalism in South Philadelphia.
Police say a vandal spray-painted anti-Trump and anti-Columbus Day sentiments on the sidewalk outside the History of Italian Immigration Museum on East Passyunk Avenue around 4:35 a.m. According to authorities, the suspect was alone and appeared to be wearing a hooded sweatshirt.
The message read, "Columbus equals Mussolini equals Rizzo equals Trump equals Fascist."
Just a few miles away, police say several "end Columbus Day" messages were also spray-painted on the sidewalk in front of the Christopher Columbus Statue on 2800 South Broad Street in Marconi Park.
A police official says he would be surprised if the two incidents were not related.
At the museum, there is frustration at what they found outside their door.
"A lot of hatred for the Italian-American community, I guess, because of Columbus Day. It's horrible to see that this could happen," said Pasquale Nestico.
Police believe the same person is responsible for both incidents.
On Monday night, authorities released a photo of a person of interest in the case.
Anyone with any information is asked to call police at 215-686-TIPS.