Vandals cut a fuel line to a generator set up for temporary lighting at a Freedom 250 event at the National Mall, as reported by the New York Post.
Videos by Wide Open Country
What Happened at the Freedom 250 Event?
According to spokeswoman Rachel Reisner, after the line was cut, the fuel seeped into the underground water tanks that collect rainwater beneath the Washington, D.C., landmark.
"Following the Freedom 250 team's installation of temporary lighting on the National Mall, our equipment has been repeatedly targeted by vandals. The recent fuel leak was the direct result of that tampering," she explained.
She then added, "Upon discovering damage to a generator fuel line, Freedom 250 and our vendors mobilized within minutes, coordinated an immediate cleanup response, and fully remediated the site in close partnership with the National Park Service.
"We take our responsibility as stewards of the National Mall seriously and are working closely with the appropriate law enforcement authorities regarding these acts of vandalism."
Did the Fuel Leak Contaminate the Drinking Water?
The generator-powered lights were for the Rededicate 250 event held on May 17. It was promoted as a full day of prayer, music, and testimony. Several members of the Trump Administration were in attendance, and President Trump also made a video appearance.
Then, on Monday, weeks after the event, a "Mobile Command Center" was seen at the National Mall. The truck is owned by an environmental remediation company. Some reports claim that over 30 gallons of fuel leaked into the underground cisterns. However, other outlets report the figure is much lower. Reports also claim that drinking water was not affected by the incident.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of the Interior said officials are remaining attentive to threats from vandals before other Freedom 250 events. This includes the Great American State Fair.
"Just last week, an individual cut a fuel line to a light tower in an attempt to stop the great work being done to celebrate our nation's 250th," they shared.
The spokesperson then added, "This is unhinged behavior that will not be tolerated. To be crystal clear: We will not be stopped. This administration continues to revitalize the city at record speed. Our nation's capital has never been this safe and beautiful, and it's all thanks to President Donald J. Trump."
