Series of Church Vandalisms in Steyr

Case information
Incident date
Country
Austria
Place
Steyr
Categories
  • Social Hostility / Intolerance
Attack Against
  • Faith
Perpetrator / Motive Indicators
  • Private
Hate Crime & Violent Incidents
  • Vandalism (all)
  • Vandalism of Church
Place of Incident
  • Church
Bias Indicators
  • Lack of Other Motive
  • Pattern or Frequency of Attacks
  • Significance of Property/Structure/Location to religious community
  • Victim/Witness Perception
Reported to Police
  • Yes
Response of Local Authorities
  • Investigated
Image credit: Wikipedia

According to recent reports, several churches in Steyr have been repeatedly vandalised since December, including a confessional set on fire.

Since December, the parish of Steyr had experienced multiple acts of vandalism across different churches in the city. According to news reports the incidents included the misuse of pews, the breaking of a tabernacle, and the setting alight of a confessional. On Janauary 6 an art installation was targeted in an act of vandalism.

The cumulative damage to property was estimated at around €7,000.

No information was provided regarding the apprehension of those responsible. In response, one church closed down, allowing entry only for services.

Sources