ROSWELL, GA — An Atlanta pastor is speaking out after making a disturbing discovery along a popular trail at a Roswell park.
Vickery Creek Trail at Old Mill Park is a place where Pastor Brian Webb says he often goes to find solitude. But during a recent walk, he says he found a log in the path spray-painted with a swastika.
“As I approached it, I couldn’t believe what I was looking at, and when I got closer to it and when I looked my stomach began to turn and I really felt disgusted,” Webb said.
Webb says he continued walking and discovered two more markings nearby.
“And I walked a little further, and I saw the second one, and then the third. At that point I knew this was an intentional message of intimidation,” he said.
Despite the discovery, Webb says he refused to leave the trail. Instead, he called his wife and then reported the vandalism to Roswell’s parks department.
“I encounter what I call a symbol of hate,” Webb said.
Webb says the markings were visible from at least 20 yards away and believes the community needs to come together to make sure those responsible do not succeed in spreading fear.
“If we see something we’re going to say something, and we’re going to shine a light on it. The individuals or the groups who operate this way, operate in darkness and hide their identity,” Webb said.
His message to the vandals, especially during the holiday season, is clear.
“The first message is one, we are not afraid, and two, there is no place for hate in this world,” Webb said.
WSB Radio has reached out to the City of Roswell for comment, but has not yet heard back.
WSB Radio’s Jennifer Perry contributed to this story.