09/12/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2025 08:54
September 12, 2025
The University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department is investigating a significant incident of vandalism that occurred during the early morning hours of Sept. 12.
Several parts of Library Mall, including the Hagenah Fountain, were vandalized with red paint.
In addition, vandalism using red paint occurred across the front of Bascom Hall in the area around the Abraham Lincoln statue, the stairs and the front doors. Flyers were also affixed to Bascom Hall.
All surfaces are being cleaned and restored as quickly as possible. Crews from Facilities Planning & Management are on site.
Criminal damage to the university's buildings and spaces - for any reason or purpose - is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
The university will take all appropriate steps under applicable criminal statutes and campus policies to hold responsible individuals accountable.
Anyone found to be responsible will face possible felony charges along with university disciplinary consequences, if applicable.
If you have any information about either incident, please contact the UW-Madison Police Department at (608) 264-2677. You can also submit tips via the BadgerSAFE app.