Swastikas spray painted on vehicles in Edmonds

EDMONDS, Wash. — Edmonds police and Snohomish Count deputies are investigating after multiple cars were spray painted with swastikas overnight.

Early Monday morning, officers responded to two reports of swastikas that had been spray painted on vehicles and residences in the Westgate neighborhood. There were similar reports in parts of unincorporated Edmonds that were referred to the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.

Throughout the day, police received five reports from victims whose property was damaged with the symbols.

“This sort of criminal behavior has no place in our society and is strongly condemned by me and any who stand up for the law and basic human dignity. We are asking for the public’s help with identifying suspects,” said police Chief Al Compaan.

Though there are people who are angry over the eight cars that were spray painted, Snohomish County deputies said they can't tell if the vandalism was actually an act specifically targeting anyone and noted that some of the swastikas were spray painted backwards.

"Whether it's just vandalism or something bigger than that, I just think it shows an awful amount of disrespect for humanity in general," said victim Bond Huberman.

Police said none of the victims felt they were targeted due to their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation or mental, physical or sensory handicap.

Several cars also had their license plates blacked out and a Mini Cooper had the word "Trump" spray painted on it.

Police are continuing their investigation as a possible hate crime in addition to the crime of vandalism. They have also notified the local FBI office.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at 425-771-0212.

Cox Media Group