Police in Prince William County, Virginia, arrested a 27-year-old man Wednesday night after responding to reports of vandalism at the Iwo Jima statue near Marine Corps Base Quantico.
Miguel Alonso Maldonado Soriano of Stafford, Virginia, was taken into custody at approximately 10:15 p.m. on October 21, following an emergency call about a man using a sledgehammer to damage the historic monument. Authorities confirmed that Soriano was observed striking the statue when officers arrived, resulting in extensive damage.
The limestone sculpture, which commemorates the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II, sustained significant harm. Police reported that one of the depicted Marines had its head completely removed, while another figure showed gouges across the helmet and face. Additional damage included a bayonet attached to a rifle slung over a soldier’s back.
Officials estimated the cost to repair the monument would reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. The statue, located near the intersection of Richmond Highway and Fuller Road, is a prominent landmark honoring U.S. Marine Corps history.
Prince William County Police confirmed that Soriano was charged with destruction of property and vandalism, with further charges possible pending investigation. The case has been referred to the Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
The Iwo Jima statue was dedicated in 1954 and is one of the most recognizable military monuments in the United States, symbolizing the valor of Marines during the 1945 Battle of Iwo Jima. The statue is a replica of the iconic Joe Rosenthal photograph, capturing six Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged vandalism. The investigation remains ongoing, with police reviewing surveillance footage and gathering witness statements.