Trump Claims Vandalism Behind Problems at Washington Reflecting Pool, Multiple Arrests Reported

President Donald Trump said federal authorities have arrested several people in connection with alleged vandalism at the National Mall’s Reflecting Pool, as questions continue to surround problems affecting a major renovation project launched ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations.

The rehabilitation project, which reportedly cost more than $14 million, was intended to restore and modernize the iconic pool located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Trump had promoted the renovation as a way to improve the appearance of the landmark after years of algae growth that frequently turned the water green.

As part of the upgrade, the pool was fitted with a blue-colored lining designed to give the water what Trump described as an “American flag blue” appearance. However, shortly after the renovated pool reopened, the water again developed a green tint, while sections of the new blue coating reportedly began peeling from the bottom and sides.

On Friday evening, Trump used social media to blame vandalism for some of the project’s difficulties.

“We’ve had some real problems with vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool,” Trump wrote, claiming that individuals had damaged both the surrounding grounds and the newly installed interior surface.

The president did not provide evidence supporting the allegations, and agencies responsible for the site, including the National Park Service, the U.S. Park Police and the Interior Department, did not immediately comment on the claims.

Trump followed up on Saturday by announcing that multiple suspects had been arrested. He described the incidents as serious crimes involving damage to national monuments and suggested those responsible could face significant penalties.

One of the individuals detained was identified as 67-year-old David Hearn of Bethesda, Maryland. Hearn told reporters that he stopped at the Reflecting Pool during a long bicycle ride after hearing reports about the renovation problems.

According to Hearn, he briefly touched a section of the peeling coating out of curiosity before being instructed by a park employee to stop. He said he complied immediately but was later detained by National Guard personnel and U.S. Park Police for approximately five hours before being released.

Hearn, a former Olympic canoe racer and businessman, said he has been ordered to appear in court next month. He described the material as soft and rubber-like and said he had no intention of damaging the structure.

The controversy comes after days of public scrutiny over the condition of the renovated pool. Images showing discolored water and peeling blue material have attracted widespread attention from visitors and media outlets.

Trump also suggested that unknown individuals may have used substances to damage the pool, drawing comparisons to a separate investigation involving markings discovered in discolored grass on the National Mall. Authorities continue to investigate both incidents as officials work to determine the cause of the renovation project’s setbacks.