A swastika was found painted on a playground slide at Devonshire Park in Highland Park on Tuesday, prompting a police investigation and renewed attention to security around local parks and houses of worship.
Highland Park police responded to the park after the antisemitic graffiti was reported. Park district personnel later removed the marking from the slide.
City officials condemned the vandalism and said the incident is especially troubling as members of Highland Park’s Jewish community observe the High Holy Days and prepare for Sukkot.
Mayor Nancy Rotering said the timing made the incident particularly painful for Jewish families in the community, describing the graffiti as an act of hate that appeared during a period traditionally associated with reflection, unity and renewal.
Police are taking additional precautions following the incident. The department is keeping a closer watch on parks and houses of worship while investigators work with the park district to determine who was responsible for the vandalism.
No suspect has been publicly identified in connection with the graffiti, and authorities have not announced any arrests.
The vandalism comes as Highland Park continues to emphasize community safety and efforts to prevent acts targeting residents because of their religion or identity. The city has previously addressed antisemitic incidents and other forms of hate in the community.
For now, the investigation remains active, and officials have not released additional details about when the graffiti was placed on the slide or who may have been responsible.
Residents who notice suspicious activity are encouraged to report it to local authorities rather than confront anyone themselves.
