A spate of Halloween vandalism in Auburn has left homeowners frustrated after a group of teenagers were caught on surveillance cameras cutting down decorations and smashing pumpkins.
The vandalism, which residents say occurred overnight Sunday and early Monday, targeted several homes.
“They came in and stabbed them with a knife,” said owner Rob Goshorn, describing the damage to his Halloween display.
Goshorn told KIRO 7 that 10 of his inflatable decorations were cut down.
“It was like something meaningless. Just things that can be fixed. But I don’t know why they would want to take away someone else’s happiness,” he explained.
Goshorn’s exhibit, which features dragons, dinosaurs, pumpkins and witches, was severely damaged.
On Facebook, several Auburn residents across the city posted photos and videos of similar damage that occurred that same night.
Surveillance footage showed teenagers breaking into a porch and smashing pumpkins.
Another neighbor posted a video showing what appears to be the same group taking down a 12-foot skeleton and breaking its head.
Each of the videos captured a similar white van seen fleeing the scenes of vandalism, and Auburn police are currently investigating multiple reports.
Goshorn estimates his damage will be about $1,000, but he remains determined to maintain his Halloween spirit despite the setback.
“That’s what it’s here for, it’s for the kids,” he said.
Auburn police continue to work to identify the teens involved as the community awaits a resolution to the Halloween mayhem.