Uploaded September 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Nitro police are investigating multiple vandalism incidents at Nitro Elementary School over the past three weeks.
The school said in a Facebook post that middle and high school students have been seen at the playground after school hours in recent weeks.
The damage includes graffiti on picnic tables, burned playground equipment and broken glass scattered around the playground.
Major Justin Raynes said the vandalism creates a financial burden for the school and can also put children at risk.
“Any vandalism or damage over there is concerning,” Raynes said. “One, because there’s a monetary cost associated with it that the school has to pay to replace those things and two - most importantly - is the safety of the kids.”
Police are working with the school to review security camera footage. Raynes said officers do not have remote access to the cameras but can view footage after coordinating with school officials.
The school recognized a custodian Monday for cleaning up the playground and removing the damage so students could continue using the area.
Raynes said the severity of any criminal charge will depend on the cost of the damage. If a single incident reaches the dollar threshold for a felony, those responsible could face more serious criminal consequences.
Investigators have not confirmed whether they have suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Nitro Police Department.
Raynes also urged parents to keep track of where their children are and who they are spending time with.
FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/nitro-police-probe-vandalism-at-nitro-elementary-after-graffiti-burns-and-broken-glass
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Nitro police are investigating multiple vandalism incidents at Nitro Elementary School over the past three weeks.
The school said in a Facebook post that middle and high school students have been seen at the playground after school hours in recent weeks.
The damage includes graffiti on picnic tables, burned playground equipment and broken glass scattered around the playground.
Major Justin Raynes said the vandalism creates a financial burden for the school and can also put children at risk.
“Any vandalism or damage over there is concerning,” Raynes said. “One, because there’s a monetary cost associated with it that the school has to pay to replace those things and two - most importantly - is the safety of the kids.”
Police are working with the school to review security camera footage. Raynes said officers do not have remote access to the cameras but can view footage after coordinating with school officials.
The school recognized a custodian Monday for cleaning up the playground and removing the damage so students could continue using the area.
Raynes said the severity of any criminal charge will depend on the cost of the damage. If a single incident reaches the dollar threshold for a felony, those responsible could face more serious criminal consequences.
Investigators have not confirmed whether they have suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Nitro Police Department.
Raynes also urged parents to keep track of where their children are and who they are spending time with.
FULL STORY: wchstv.com/news/local/nitro-police-probe-vandalism-at-nitro-elementary-after-graffiti-burns-and-broken-glass
_________________________________________
Follow WCHS on social media:
Facebook: facebook.com/eyewitnessnewscharleston
Twitter: twitter.com/wchs8fox11
Instagram: instagram.com/wchs8fox11
For the latest local and national news, visit our website: wchstv.com
Sign up for our newsletter: wchstv.com/sign-up
