Trump won’t have one iconic American landmark this 4th of July.
Just days before Americans celebrate Independence Day, new court documents reveal that the National Park Service will once again drain the Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., after officials say it suffered extensive vandalism.
The repairs are expected to begin immediately after the July 4 festivities, creating another setback for one of the nation’s most recognizable landmarks.
According to federal court filings released Thursday by the White House, National Park Service Deputy Director for Operations Frank Lands said U.S. Park Police responded to reports of damage at the Reflecting Pool on June 9.
Officials allege someone used a sharp blade to cut protective foam sealant before applying caulk over portions of the damaged area. Court documents also state that approximately 70 decorative fence caps were thrown into the water, creating additional cleanup and repair work.
Once Independence Day celebrations conclude, crews will drain the Reflecting Pool so engineers can inspect the liner, assess any hidden damage, and complete needed repairs.
The latest incident comes after President Donald Trump ordered a major restoration project that kept the Reflecting Pool under renovation for more than two months.
The timing is especially significant because Washington, D.C., is preparing to welcome massive crowds for Independence Day celebrations as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Federal officials say the Reflecting Pool was not the only location affected.
According to the Department of the Interior, investigators are also looking into multiple graffiti incidents across the National Mall, including markings displaying the numbers “8647.”
Administration officials have argued the numbers carry political meaning. They note that “86” is commonly used as slang for removing or getting rid of something, while “47” is widely interpreted as a reference to President Trump as the 47th president.
In a separate incident, police say an individual allegedly used their own blood to write the words “I’ve come” on the Washington Monument. The incident was documented in a police report reviewed by Fox News Digital.
The White House said law enforcement has responded aggressively to the vandalism investigations.
According to administration officials, seven people have been arrested in connection with alleged damage to the Reflecting Pool, another seven individuals received federal citations, and authorities have completed 18 separate police reports involving incidents across the National Mall.
Earlier this week, U.S. Park Police released surveillance video while asking the public for help identifying a person believed to be connected to the Reflecting Pool investigation. The footage appears to show an individual kneeling beside the water before reaching into the pool during the alleged vandalism.
In a statement released Thursday, the White House described the incidents as deliberate attacks on public property rather than isolated acts of mischief.
Administration officials said preserving America’s historic monuments remains a top priority as millions of visitors prepare to celebrate Independence Day in the nation’s capital.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue asking anyone with information about the incidents to contact U.S. Park Police.
