Huntington police are investigating after sculptures created to raise money for a children’s hospital have been vandalized. Last month, the Marshall Health Network Foundations installed 48 public art pieces designed by local artists around the city.
The sculptures – which depict animals native to West Virginia such as cardinals, bears and trout – are to be auctioned off in October to benefit the Hoops Family Children’s Hospital. Investigators said multiple pieces were vandalized and a deer sculpture along Fifth Avenue near the Cabell County Library went missing. Police are combing surveillance footage and noted charges will not be filed if the deer statue is returned undamaged. Vandalized sculptures will be repaired before they are sold. Organizers said the annual fundraiser raises about $50,000 per year.