CHETWYND, B.C. — Vandals have damaged a chainsaw carving just days after Chetwynd gifted it to Prince Rupert.
Someone has removed the wing of the eagle in the sculpture, which was presented as a gift at the North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) conference in May.
In a press release, the City of Prince Rupert reported the vandalism done to the wood carving installation in Totem Park.
“It’s heartbreaking to see something that was gifted to us as a sign of friendship damaged in this way,” said Mayor Herb Pond. “We hope to see it soon restored to its former glory.”
The chainsaw carving, created by Jarette Dahl and titled Survival of the Fittest, highlights the area’s wildlife. It was presented to the city by Chetwynd’s mayor, Allen Courtoreille.
Prince Rupert said this gift from the District of Chetwynd was intended to be a lasting symbol of inter-community connection and shared appreciation for local artistry.
“The city is currently assessing the extent of the damage and will be working with Chetwynd and the carver to determine how and when repairs can be made,” it added.
The press release urges anyone with information about the vandalism to contact the city.
The NCLGA conference in May also saw the City of Fort St. John win a Leadership Award for its Health and Safety Conference and Fort St. John councillor Tony Zabinsky elected as the association’s first vice president.
Hear more about the event from Mayor Lilia Hansen here.