Racial slur prompts vandalism investigation in Bethel

BETHEL — Vermont State Police are looking into a case of vandalism after a racial slur was found painted on Vermont Route 14 near Factory Hill Road on Tuesday morning.

Authorities were alerted to the graffiti at approximately 9:45 a.m. and immediately commenced an investigation.

The offensive language, which has sparked concerns of a hate crime, marred the pavement along a stretch of the road frequented by residents and commuters.

The Vermont Agency of Transportation has been tasked with removing the slur from the roadway.

In the meantime, investigators are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to identifying those responsible for the incident.

In response to the seriousness of the offense, the incident has been reported to the Attorney General’s Office and is being considered under the Bias Incident Reporting System, which tracks potential hate crimes within the state.

Members of the community with any knowledge of the crime are encouraged to come forward and contact the Vermont State Police in Royalton at 802-234-9933.

The investigation into this act of vandalism is ongoing, and officials are determined to address and rectify the harm caused by such incidents.