Patrick Henry High School in San Diego has been the target of a vandalism incident that has resulted in significant damage estimated at £55,000. The vandalism, which occurred during the early hours of May 26, 2026, involved a male suspect applying a sticky substance to over 200 door locks throughout the school.
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According to authorities, the incident took place between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. local time, with surveillance footage capturing the suspect arriving at the premises in a sedan before fleeing the scene. The application of the adhesive rendered many doors inoperable, prompting considerable disruption as staff arrived to prepare for the final weeks of term.
Eyewitness accounts from students returning to school revealed the chaotic situation faced by teachers attempting to open the locks. One student, Christopher Guzman, described witnessing several teachers on the floor, attempting to pry at the locks in frustration. “I saw all these teachers trying to figure it out,” Guzman recounted. “They had little tools, but nothing was working.”
The investigation is currently in progress, and law enforcement officials have made a public appeal for information regarding the suspect’s identity. The male in question was seen wearing a hooded sweatshirt emblazoned with a ‘B’ logo, along with baggy trousers and trainers. Authorities believe the act was premeditated, noting that the suspect’s face was intentionally obscured during the incident.
Detective Sergeant Roberto Bonilla from the San Diego Unified School District Police Department noted the timing of the vandalism was particularly disruptive, as the end of term is a busy period for both teachers and students. “Everyone is trying to wrap up the school year, so this has created a significant inconvenience,” he stated.
Initial reports have hinted that the vandalism could be linked to a senior prank, though it remains unclear if the suspect is a student at the school. The story appears to have generated a fair amount of speculation among students and the local community.
In response to the incident, the San Diego Unified School District Police Department has urged anyone with information regarding the suspect or the vehicle to come forward. Individuals who may know the whereabouts of the suspect are advised to contact the authorities at 619-291-7678. For those preferring to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
As the investigation continues, the school community remains on high alert and is hoping for a swift resolution to this unsettling act of vandalism.