Several families visited a Central Texas Cemetery on Wednesday to check whether vases had been stolen from the grave sites of their loved ones.
Robinson Police said over the past week someone stole at least 72 vases worth a total $50,000 from Waco Memorial Park.
It is possible vases were also stolen from the nearby Chapel Hill Cemetery. Police suspect the vases were sold for scrap metal.
People who have loved ones buried at the cemetery said they were surprised about the theft happening there.
"It could happen. There are people who are desperate to get money, especially around Christmas time or use it for other reasons, they shouldn't," Brenda Sulak said.
Anthony Fulbright who was also at the cemetery on Wednesday was also stunned about what occurred.
"I was astonished. I can't believe someone would have to take something for whatever reason," Fulbright said.
After visiting the graves of family members, Fulbright his friend Nona Kirkpatrick found out the vases of their family members were still there.
"I still feel sorry for the families that the graves were tampered with because they're up next to the road and all of them are missing in that area," Kirkpatrick said.
Waco Memorial & Chapel Hill Park management announced it is in the process of contacting affected lot owners whose vases will be replaced at no cost.
"The recent vase theft at Waco Memorial & Chapel Hill Park is an unfortunate act of vandalism. We are currently in the process of determining the extent of the theft with the assistance of local police," Waco Memorial Funeral Home & Cemeteries General Manager Doyle Ooten said.
If you have any information about the theft, contact Crime Stoppers at 254-753-4357.
If a vase is missing from your loved ones grave, contact Waco Memorial & Chapel Hill Park at 254-662-1051.
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