According to officials, three teenagers have been arrested for vandalizing and setting fire to the beloved historic Sleepy Hollow lighthouse just one year after it underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation. The suspects, identified as Elvin Ayavaca, 18, Richard Barrero, 19, and an unnamed 17-year-old, caused over $100,000 in damage to the 142-year-old landmark. They have been charged with arson, burglary, and criminal mischief after being caught on camera walking over a bridge leading to the lighthouse. A fourth suspect is still at large.
The vandals allegedly hopped a locked fence at around 3:30 a.m., broke a window, and entered the red-and-white lighthouse. Once inside, they set fire to parts of the museum area on the bottom floor, damaging antique furniture and around 35 valuable books. This destruction occurred following a recent $3.4 million renovation of the lighthouse’s interior, including the restoration of its historic spotlight.
The teenagers were arraigned in Sleepy Hollow Village Court on felony charges. Authorities have not disclosed the identity of the 17-year-old suspect due to their status as a juvenile. The incident has caused outrage in the local community and led to an outpouring of police tips.
The lighthouse, built in 1883 at Kingsland Point Park, is a cherished landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The damage caused by the vandalism has been described as disappointing and heartbreaking by Westchester County officials. The incident has saddened many residents in the area.
