Community Christmas tree destroyed for the third year in a row
Like many communities, the village of Washington Park, Illinois, holds an annual tree-lighting ceremony in honor of Christmas.
However, for the third year in a row, the south Suburban Chicago’s events have faced a setback.
In 2019, a driver had a screen cut off. In 2020, someone tore the banner down. After Christmas that same year, the tree was burned, according to Chicago block club.
‘It’s the season! @mbmhmc tree lighting in Washington Park. pic.twitter.com/mRrtEUlQ0J
– Mack Liederman (@mack_liederman) December 4, 2021
This year, between the official lighting on Saturday night and the next morning, the 30-foot tree was set on fire by an unidentified person.
Earlier on Saturday afternoon, community volunteers who were helping with holiday decorations were also victims of theft, adding to the chaos in what was further reported by Fox 32 Chicago. WFLD-TV.
“The women told investigators they were decorating a fence Saturday afternoon in Bronzeville when a group of people stepped out of a white SUV and took their wallets and purses, then took off, “according to the report.
While questions still remain about the intent and origin of the fire, surveillance footage obtained by Block Club Chicago from a nearby store shows the tree was intentionally targeted.
A few seconds into the clip, the silhouette of an individual can be seen moving towards the tree. A few minutes later, a spark appeared.
At 3:03, the fire then became clear.
Chicago Police was notified of the fire at around 5 a.m. on Sunday. The tree was relocated on Monday.
One of the community organizers My Block, My Hood, My City, said, “Unfortunately, an event that was supposed to bring the community together resulted in the burning of a beautiful tree. .”
He added, “While it’s a failure, it won’t stop us from beautifying the community through the holiday season.”
The group plans to continue spreading good cheer by decorating their homes in the coming days.
The Chicago Chamber of Commerce said the city is also involved and plans to help with tree replacement later this week.
An investigation is still underway and the suspect responsible for the arson has yet to be identified.
https://www.westernjournal.com/war-christmas-communitys-christmas-tree-destroyed-third-consecutive-year/ Community Christmas tree destroyed for the third year in a row
