Reston Church Hit With Graffiti, Fire After Roe V. Wade Ruling: Cops

RESTON, VA — A Catholic church in Reston was vandalized with spray paint following the Supreme Court's recent decision that struck down Roe v. Wade, the Fairfax County Police Department confirmed. Someone also started a fire on church grounds, officers said.

According to police, Fairfax County Fire and Rescue responded to the St. John Neumann Catholic Community Church on Lawyers Road after receiving a call for smoldering mulch around 7 a.m. Sunday.

Police said firefighters determined an accelerant was likely used in the fire. While on scene, they noticed graffiti spray-painted on a sign at the entrance of the church.

Officers said firefighters also found three additional locations on the back of the church damaged by graffiti.

"The remarks spray-painted were related to the recent Supreme Court Roe v. Wade ruling. Officers are working with the staff of the church to review surveillance footage," police said in a news release.

In addition, police said they've increased patrols at the church and other places of worship.

Anyone who may have information about this incident is asked to contact detectives at 703-478-0904. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), by text – Type “FCCS” plus tip to 847411, and by web – Click HERE.

Residents can also download the Mobile tip411 App, “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers.” Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards of $100 to $1,000.