Pride crosswalk vandalized in Okotoks; RCMP release suspect photos

Mounties in a town just south of Calgary have released photos of a suspect in connection with the vandalism of a Pride crosswalk last week.

RCMP say the rainbow-coloured crosswalk in Okotoks was splashed with white paint on June 13. Officers reportedly came across the vandalism shortly before midnight while on patrol.

Police say suspects also smeared paint on the crosswalk sign.

Alberta RCMP reviewed surveillance video in the area. Investigators say a man on a skateboard can be seen carrying what is believed to be bags of white paint.

“He ran back and forth across the sidewalk spilling the paint and then wiped the post with it,” police said in a news release.

Police have described the suspect as wearing a dark hoodie and jeans.

The exact motivations of the suspects is unknown, police say.

Suspect in vandalism of Okotoks Pride crosswalk suspect on June 13, 2023. (Submitted by: Okotoks RCMP)

In a social media post last week, the Town of Okotoks said it was “saddened and angered” by the act of vandalism.

“The Town would like to take this opportunity to remind the community that we value equity, diversity, and inclusion where every person has a right to equal treatment, and where we are strengthened by diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences,” the town wrote.

“Building an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community that is collaborative and supportive of all residents is a priority and marginalization is not tolerated.”