Crime & Courts

Former downtown Wichita library vandalized, police to increase patrols in area

A window boarded up at the former downtown Wichita library is one of a several that were smashed over the weekend, Wichita police say
A window boarded up at the former downtown Wichita library is one of a several that were smashed over the weekend, Wichita police say The Wichita Eagle

The former downtown Wichita library has been vandalized, with several windows being smashed and boarded up.

No arrests have been made in the incident, Wichita police spokesperson Juan Rebolledo said, noting that unhoused residents have been spotted around the building.

“We are actively working with them to address their needs,” Rebolledo said in an email.

An Eagle reporter counted at least four windows boarded up, with one being smashed but not covered. The city is working to get an estimate of the damage, according to Rebolledo.

WPD’s Homeless Outreach Team will staff more patrol officers around the former library in an attempt to prevent further damage, Rebolledo added.

The building was most recently used as Sedgwick County’s main COVID-19 vaccination site.

This story was originally published February 14, 2023 at 2:24 PM.

Eduardo Castillo
The Wichita Eagle
Eduardo covers crime and breaking news for The Wichita Eagle. His previous work experience includes stints at KWCH 12 Eyewitness News, the local CBS affiliate in Wichita, and as a marketing manager for a local real estate team. In addition to writing, Eduardo also enjoys still photography and cinematography. News tips? email at Edcastillo@wichitaeagle.com or call 316-268-6213.
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