Vandals target Jackie Robinson and Minnie Miñoso murals in Miami

Vandals Target Murals of Baseball Legends Jackie Robinson and Minnie Miñoso in Miami

Police in Miami have launched an investigation after vandals targeted murals of baseball legends Jackie Robinson and Minnie Miñoso. The paintings, located along a fence in Miami’s Dorsey Park, are part of a collection of artwork honoring multiple legendary baseball stars. These murals hold significant historical value as Negro League teams once played games at the historic park.

The vandalism was initially discovered by a 7-year-old boy, who noticed Nazi symbols painted over the murals. Prominent members of the community held a news conference to address the incident, expressing their outrage and calling it a vile act of hatred. Plywood has since been placed over the defaced murals of Robinson and Miñoso, but community leaders are urging for the uncovering of the hurt and hatred that exists.

Terrance Cribbs-Lorrant, the executive director of the City of Miami Black Police Precinct, emphasized the importance of addressing and confronting such acts rather than covering them up. Democratic U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick condemned the vandalism as a hate crime meant to instill fear and division, but she emphasized the community’s unity, resilience, and commitment to truth, justice, and the preservation of history.

Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball in 1947, becoming the first Black player to sign with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Minnie Miñoso, on the other hand, was MLB’s first Afro-Latino player and the first Black player for the Chicago White Sox. The murals of these baseball legends have been displayed in the park since 2011, serving as a tribute to their groundbreaking contributions to the sport.

Despite the heinous act, no arrests have been made in connection with the vandalism. The Miami Police Department has been contacted for further information on the investigation. The community remains determined to stand against such acts of hatred and preserve the legacy of these iconic baseball figures.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Chantz Martin is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on Twitter and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.