The Maryland Natural Resources Police are asking for the public's help in identifying and locating individuals who broke into and vandalized the Thomas Point Lighthouse between April 15-16, 2016. 

Thomas Point Lighthouse before the vandalism. Photo by Melinda Stevenson

On April 17, officers met with the lighthouse caretakers who had discovered the damage to the national historic landmark and Maryland icon that sits in the Chesapeake Bay at the mouth of the South River. Wooden pickets had been destroyed, windows were shattered, and fire extinguishers were set off. The vandals could only have gotten to the lighthouse by boat so the NRP is hopeful that someone saw a boat and that witnesses will come forward. Some of the volunteers who worked to restore the lighthouse are almost 80 years old and it will take countless more volunteer hours to replace the damage. Mayor of Annapolis Mike Pantelides said "I was sickened to hear about the damage to our treasured lighthouse and can't comprehend what kind of person would carry out this despicable act." Anyone with information regarding the break-in and damage is asked to call Officer Jeff Beshore or Officer Chris Neville at 1-800-628-9944.