FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Wednesday, Oct 30, 2025

CONTACT:
MayorPress@sandiego.gov
 

SAN DIEGO – Mayor Todd Gloria today issued the following statement regarding the vandalism of the newly unveiled Officer Austin Machitar Memorial Park sign in Clairemont: 

“I am furious that just days after we came together as a community to honor Officer Austin Machitar — a man who gave his life in service to this city — someone chose to vandalize and desecrate the memorial to this hero. 
 
“This is not who we are as San Diegans. We respect and honor those who protect our communities, and we will never tolerate this kind of hateful, criminal behavior. 
 
“The San Diego Police Department will use every resource available to find those responsible and hold them fully accountable for this crime.
 
“To Officer Machitar’s family, colleagues, and loved ones: Please know that our city stands with you. We will restore the sign, we will continue to honor Austin’s legacy, and we will ensure that justice is served.” 

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