News Release

Cape Hatteras National Seashore seeks assistance identifying those responsible for two acts of vandalism at Ocracoke Light Station

Missing wooden ventilation slat and damaged wire screen on Ocracoke Lighthouse door.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: October 6, 2020

Contact: Michael Barber, 252-475-9032

Two acts of vandalism at the Ocracoke Light Station were recently discovered by Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) Rangers. The Seashore has launched an investigation and seeks tips from the public to help catch those responsible for the vandalism.

On Sunday, September 27, Rangers noticed that a wooden ventilation slat was missing from the Ocracoke Lighthouse door. Additionally, the wire screening behind the missing wooden slat was forcibly detached from the door.

On Monday, October 5, Rangers discovered that numerous windows were damaged in the Keeper’s Quarters, the lighthouse, and several outbuildings. It is believed that the damages were caused sometime between the evening of October 3rd and the morning of October 5th.

Anyone with information that may help determine the individuals, circumstances, and events that led to the acts of vandalism are asked to contact the National Park Service’s Investigative Services Branch (ISB). Call or text the ISB Tip Line at 888-653-0009 or submit a tip at www.nps.gov/isb.

Completed in 1823, the Ocracoke Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

Damage to Keeper's Quarters window.
 

Damage to Keeper's Quarters window and door.