ROCK HILL, S.C. -- A driver crashes through a Rock Hill park, destroying parts of the garden, and leaves.
The trail of destruction through the Glencairn Garden in Rock Hill was still visible when Santa Claus arrived to read with children.
Park Supervisor John Taylor says the driver, “left Charlotte Avenue, came through the holly bushes, crashed into the first tree that you see here,” he says pointing to a large tree with bark missing near its base.
He continued pointing out the driver, “hit this Japanese maple, took out a light pole. We suspect in engaged four wheel drive to get up the hill.”
Parents, like Heather King, are using the park today for reading and picture time with Santa. “It makes me kinda mad,” she says “To hear that somebody would do something like that is kinda frustrating.”
She, like many in the city, are disappointed someone would do this to the newly renovated park. “We’ve come here a couple times and had picnics,” adds King.
Police haven’t found any witnesses, but park employees found some evidence. “We think it’s a late model blue Chevrolet,” says Taylor.
He’s referring to a Chevrolet Silverado logo along with blue paint chips and a spare tire left behind as the driver left the park.
Without a witness or any video, it’s still difficult to identify any suspects in the case. That’s why Taylor says, “We’d really like for somebody to come forward.”
Crews spent a day cleaning so the Rock Hill Galleria Mall could host their Santa event Saturday.
The Mall’s marketing manager Allison Cleveland says, “Santa’s the man, he’s gonna be here regardless.”
Many of the parents and children weren’t even aware of the damage just a few feet from the event.
“It’s absolutely wonderful that we’re able to come out here and enjoy, walking around the park not even knowing that it had happened,” says King.
And the best part according to Cleveland, “Everything’s free so it’s definitely a good event when everybody’s worried about the economic conditions.”
And that’s all the smiling little faces could have asked for.
Meanwhile park employees say the driver caused about 6 thousand dollars worth of damage. Rock Hill police are looking for anyone with information.
They say the driver will face misdemeanor property damage charges.
