Trump says Reflecting Pool vandals caught after box cutter damage, fertilizer dumped into water

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said authorities have arrested people accused of vandalizing the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, claiming they used a box cutter or another sharp object to damage the pool's protective coating and dumped fertilizer into the water.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said those responsible would face consequences as the administration races to repair the iconic landmark ahead of the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations.

Trump says suspects face 'problems ahead'

"We caught some people vandalizing our beautiful reflecting pool," Trump said. "We have the reflecting pool. They took a cutter, a box cutter, or something, very sharp."

He also alleged that the suspects poured fertilizer into the water. "They threw a little fertilizer in the water, which is not good. Fertilizer doesn't go well with water. Clear, beautiful water."

He added, "But they caught them. They actually caught them, and those guys have some problems ahead of them, but they did some damage."

Trump's remarks came a day after he said authorities had arrested multiple people over damage to the pool and pledged to release photos and videos of the alleged vandalism.

Administration blames vandalism as questions remain

According to the Associated Press, Trump has repeatedly blamed vandalism for damage to the Reflecting Pool's new blue liner. However, he has not publicly presented evidence supporting claims that criminal acts caused the peeling coating.

The US Park Police and the Interior Department have not publicly released details confirming the arrests or the alleged vandalism described by the president.

The AP independently verified one arrest involving a man who briefly touched an already-peeling section of the liner before being stopped by a park employee. It has not verified Trump's broader claims that vandals caused the extensive damage.

Reflecting Pool project faces multiple setbacks

The Reflecting Pool rehabilitation project, which has cost more than $14 million, has faced criticism after algae blooms spread across the water and sections of the newly applied coating began peeling shortly after reopening.

Workers have been treating the water while preparing additional repairs before next week's Fourth of July celebrations.

The controversy has also expanded beyond the damaged liner after environmental groups raised concerns over dead ducks found near the algae-filled pool, prompting calls for a federal wildlife investigation.