The Canby Police Department is investigating a spate of what officials described as “gang-style graffiti” that was reported in multiple areas, including private residences, throughout Canby Friday.
The incidents — all of which appeared to have occurred Thursday night or early the following morning — were reported on South Elm Street, Southwest Fourth Street, South Knott and South Oak Place, according to Canby Police Chief Bret Smith.
Photos courtesy the Canby Police Department:
“Somebody, or some group, kind of went crazy,” Chief Smith told The Canby Current. “This is pretty unique to Canby. We haven’t had anything like this happen to us for quite a while.”
The graffiti was found on a variety of surfaces, including walls, shop doors, fences and even a decorative stone wall marking the entrance to Township Village.
Canby Police detectives are still investigating and are seeking information from anyone who might have witnessed or have video of the suspect or suspects.
Smith said it’s possible the perpetrators were someone from outside of town, who “wanted to send a message.”
Canby Code Enforcement is working with affected homeowners to address the defacements, Smith said.
But the incidents Thursday night may not have been as isolated as initially believed. After this story was posted, several residents of the Canby Regency mobile home park shared photos of similar graffiti that they say has been appearing regularly in their neighborhood for months.
“We have been getting vandalized,” said one resident, who asked to remain anonymous. “There have also been break-ins and things going missing outside.”
