Vandals cause thousands in damage at Oregon’s Heceta Head Lighthouse

By Rachael McDonald (KLCC)
June 21, 2023 1:18 p.m.

An undated provided photo of Heceta Head Lighthouse in Florence, Ore. The lighthouse is one of the most well-known on the Oregon Coast.

Courtesy of Florence Chamber of Commerce

Vandals have damaged one of Oregon’s most iconic lighthouses. Oregon State Police want the public’s help in identifying the suspects who carried out the vandalism at Heceta Head Lighthouse last week.

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Surveillance video footage shows four people approaching the lighthouse and its buildings on June 14 at 8:43 p.m. One had a can of spray paint. Two others broke a window and attempted entry. They all fled when someone came upon them.

Still images captured from surveillance video show four suspects in Heceta Head Lighthouse vandalism that occurred June 14, 2023, in Florence, Ore.

Courtesy of Oregon State Parks

Authorities say one building was spray-painted, as well as some trail signage. Anyone with information relating to this incident is asked to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch Center at *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone or 800-442-0776. Reference case # SP23-178524.

The Oregon State Police is working closely with Oregon State Parks to preserve and protect this historical landmark, the Heceta Head Lighthouse located at milepost 178 on Highway 101 in Florence.

Oregon State Parks Ranger Burke Martin estimates the cost to repair the damage to be between $10,000 to $20,000. OSP says they will continue working diligently to ensure the safety and integrity of this iconic site.

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