Photo: MLADEN ANTONOV / AFP / Getty Images
Authorities are investigating after prehistoric petroglyphs near Moab, Utah, were vandalized at two separate sites. The Utah Bureau of Land Management (BLM) reported that vandals carved their names into or near the ancient rock art, which dates back to approximately 400 to 1300 A.D.
The incidents occurred along Highway 279 and near Hell’s Revenge, a popular off-roading trail. The petroglyphs are protected under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act, and defacing them is a federal offense. According to ABC4 Utah, a conviction can lead to fines, imprisonment, and exclusion from public lands.
The BLM emphasized the importance of these cultural resources, stating, "Once damaged, they cannot be restored to their original condition." They urged visitors to respect and protect these resources for future generations.
Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to contact the Moab BLM Law Enforcement at 435-259-2131. The agency is seeking public assistance in identifying those responsible for the damage, as reported by FOX Weather.
The Bureau of Land Management also shared images of the vandalism, which included names like "meru" and "Craig W" carved into the rock, according to SFGATE. These acts of vandalism are not only a violation of federal law but also a significant loss to the cultural heritage of the area.