Flossmoor police responded to two locations, the Metra train station downtown and nearby Leavitt Park, early Friday, Aug. 22, after receiving reports of racist graffiti.

Officers responded to the train station shortly before 5:30 a.m. and found a racist slur painted on a wall near one of the entrances. 

Two hours later, officers investigated a report of graffiti on an art installation at Leavitt Park and found similar racial and discriminatory language.

All the graffiti has been removed from both locations by public works staff.

“The Village of Flossmoor prides itself on being a welcoming, diverse and inclusive community; sadly, even we are not immune to hateful incidents such as these,” Mayor Michelle Nelson said. “I want to thank our police and public works staff for responding swiftly today, and want to assure our residents that the village takes these incidents seriously.”

Police detectives are conducting an investigation to gather additional information that may help identify the individuals responsible. 

While this incident is both alarming and deeply concerning, preliminary findings indicate there is no current threat to public safety, Police Chief Carl Estelle said. If additional information emerges, he says the community will be notified.

“There is no room for intolerance or hatred within our community, and, as a department, we will continue to work towards identifying and holding those responsible for this unacceptable offense,” Estelle said.  

Police urge anyone with information about these incidents to call 708-957-4500.