Web Desk
HOUSTON — Families are devastated after a historic Jewish cemetery in Houston was vandalized, prompting an urgent investigation by authorities.
Beth Yeshurun Cemetery, located on Allen Parkway, is the city’s second-oldest Jewish burial site, holding the remains of generations of Houstonians.
Now, several of its cherished artifacts lay shattered.
Among the damage were broken vases, some believed to be over a century old, and four toppled headstones near the entrance.
According to the cemetery’s manager, the vandalism occurred last Friday in broad daylight.
The cemetery was open in the morning, but by 5 p.m., when the caretaker arrived to lock the gates, the destruction had already taken place.
Additionally, sprinklers and hoses were deliberately damaged.
The estimated cost of repairs is expected to exceed $10,000.
Loved ones of those buried at the cemetery have been notified.
One woman, who preferred to remain anonymous, said she rushed to check on her mother and grandfather’s graves after hearing the news.
The incident struck an emotional chord, as it happened on what would have been her mother’s 99th birthday.
“I was terrified to think my family’s gravesites had been vandalized,” she said. “I just can’t fathom why anyone would do this to a cemetery.”
The cemetery’s manager believes the attack was intentional, though it remains unclear whether it was a targeted hate crime. Authorities have not ruled out that possibility.
Houston police are leading the investigation, with support from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston.
“Someone deliberately entered that cemetery with the intent to cause harm,” said Dena Marks, senior associate director of ADL Southwest Region. “Whether motivated by hate or another reason, this act was clearly meant to send a message.”
Renée Wizig-Barrios, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, issued a statement condemning the vandalism and emphasizing the need for community solidarity.
In response to the incident, cemetery officials are working on enhancing security, including installing surveillance cameras.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. Crime Stoppers can be reached at 713-222-TIPS.
