Families distressed after vases are stolen from Fresno cemetery graves
ABC30 Fresno • • science
Key Points:
- Dozens of flower vases were stolen from gravesites at Fresno Memorial Gardens Cemetery, including plots in the Garden of Valor where veterans are buried, causing distress among visiting families.
- The stolen vases, often made of bronze or brass, are targeted by thieves for scrap metal resale amid rising metal prices, prompting some families to switch to plastic vases.
- Similar thefts and vandalism incidents have occurred at other cemeteries like Ararat Armenian Cemetery, leading to increased security measures such as lighting, patrols, and surveillance cameras.
- Cemetery officials emphasize the emotional impact of these thefts, describing them as violations of sacred spaces and significant tributes to loved ones, and encourage families to report missing items to law enforcement.
- Visitors and families express deep respect for military service members and condemn the thefts as disrespectful acts that compound their grief, especially around Memorial Day preparations.