A truck tore through downtown Leavenworth’s Front Street Park sometime overnight, leading the city to close the popular sledding spot on Dec. 22.
LEAVENWORTH, Wash. — It’s something only the Grinch would think of doing in Washington’s merriest town, just days before Christmas.
On Saturday about 11:30 p.m., a truck was captured on video driving through the Front Street Park lawn in downtown Leavenworth.
Video shows the truck driving in speedy circles, sending icy mud flying and crashing into nearby snow drifts. At least two people are seen filming the truck as it tears up the public space.
While the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the incident is under investigation, there are no suspects in custody as of Sunday night.
Law enforcement told KING 5 the truck involved in causing the damage appears to be a 2024 silver Toyota Tundra with the Texas license plate TTR1528. The driver appears to be a man in his 20s to 30s. He has not been identified yet.
Once the driver is identified, police expect probable cause will be found for reckless driving and second-degree malicious mischief.
The City of Leavenworth posted on its Instagram, announcing a temporary closure of the area. It’s often used as a kids sledding hill during the winter months.
“Due to a property damage incident last night, the lawn area in Front Street Park is CLOSED temporarily,” the post reads. “We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding as we work to restore the usability of our downtown park.”
This comes as many families flock to the Bavarian-themed town to enjoy the snow, shops and sparkly lights of Leavenworth.
“I was blown away that someone would do that. It was super bold,” said Tanner Bombardieri. He said this is not only hurting their hearts, but their business because they typically sell sleds to families.
“It’s very unfortunate,” he said. “Nobody can sled on it anymore because of what they did.”
City officials said the Chamber’s Christmastown programming in the gazebo was set to continue as planned.
Anyone with information about the incident or the suspect driver should contact the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office at (509) 667-6845.
