Miller’s Landing Park restroom closed after destructive vandals set fire, spray foul graffiti on walls

'Something we're going to have to continue to deal with'

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The public restroom has been closed at Miller’s Landing Park in northwest Bend pending repairs after a destructive arson fire and damaging vandalism over the weekend, including vulgar and racist graffiti on the walls, authorities said.

Bend Police got the call around 5:15 p.m. Saturday amid reports of smoke coming from the restroom, and Bend Fire crews were already on scene when officers arrived, Communications Manager Sheila Miller said Tuesday.

“Our department is investigating the fire as arson,” she said. “The graffiti and fire damage to the bathroom is estimated at more than $1,000.”

Witnesses said they saw a group of teenagers leaving the scene.

Someone had set fire to toilet paper in the sinks, and to the walls of the restroom. The walls also were covered with vulgar graffiti, including racial slurs.

The bathrooms will stay closed repairs can be made, Bend Park and Rec District officials said.

“Graffiti and vandalism is something we're going to have to continue to deal with,” Park Stewardship Manager Jeff Hagler said. “We would like the help from the public. If they see something, say something. Call us. We want to try to take care of it as quickly as possible.”

Hagler said this is becoming a sadly familiar occurrence. This winter, the restrooms at Alpenglow Park were set ablaze and vandalized in a similar way.

Last fall, BPRD reported a steep increase in illegal activities, such as drug use, and costly vandalism in its restrooms.