Trying to Make Sense of the Actions of Others
If I could have just one superpower, it would be the ability to know why people do the things they do. The actions of some individuals completely mystify me.
On Tuesday, Aug. 18, around 10 a.m., I drove to Compton Park to look at a red park bench constructed from recycled bottle caps, intended to provide visitors a comfortable place to sit and an aesthetic complement to the park. I feel a sentimental attachment to the bench because my parents arranged for it to occupy Compton Park in honor of my daughter who passed away unexpectedly at age 21 in 2020. There’s a little sign at the top center of the bench that reads: Build a Better Block Macomb, Ashley M. Fisher, Caring and Compassionate.
Imagine my surprise when I saw the damage done to the sign on the bench. All four corners were ground down. And there were lines etched on the top of the sign. I couldn’t believe it! I texted my parents to let them know, and when my dad arrived he noticed that half of the red mulch he placed under the bench was gone.
I called the police to report the vandalism, and while we waited, we wondered why anyone would do this. A possible theory was that someone attempted to pry the sign off the bench. Perhaps they didn’t see the screws holding the sign in place because it was dark, or were unable to turn the screws? Maybe the person chose to do it at night to avoid detection? It appeared to be a random and unplanned incident.
Once the officer arrived, he photographed the damaged sign and took notes. The officer said he’d go to homes around Compton Park and ask residents if they’ve noticed anything.
Why? Why damage or try to steal a tiny memorial sign on a park bench? Why take mulch from underneath the bench?
What person would deliberately vandalize a beautiful park bench intended to provide visitors a comfortable place to sit while paying tribute to a loving and kind young woman who was ripped from this world way too soon? I can’t picture a Mensa member telling his wife, “I’ll be back later hon, I’m going to Compton Park with my hand-held grinder to cause some mischief!” And the wife says, “Don’t forget to pick up some red mulch!”
Why steal red mulch?? Has red mulch replaced Pokemon as the “it” fad? Did the culprit gather up as much red mulch as possible because they were unable to pry off the sign and didn’t want to leave empty-handed? I wish I knew why this incident happened. I wish my daughter could somehow let me know who vandalized her bench. I wish Ash was still alive. If any Compton Park resident can assist the MPD with video footage or information, please contact the police. P. Brian Fisher, Jr. Macomb, IL
