Two suspects have been identified in the vandalism incident at the Bills' Highmark Stadium construction site, which resulted in a pause in construction and in excess of $150,000 in damage.
According to WIVB, the construction the news just one day after 1,500 workers returned to the site after work had been paused.
“The investigation and tip line conducted in coordination with local law enforcement, have at this time, led to the identification of two individuals who may be responsible for the graffiti,” said Gilbrane Turner, the company leading the project.
Erie County Department of Public Works commissioner Bill Geary had previously told Buffalo-Toronto Public Broadcasting that an investigation of the incident suggests an inside job.
"Everybody has to go through a staff entry point that has a person there; it is not a free-for-all in and out, you have to swipe in and swipe out," he said. "We are 99% sure it was an employee who did the vandalism."
Paul Brown, president of the Buffalo Building Trades Council, said extensive work is needed for the repairs.
“[The paint] got into the marble, they can’t get it out, so they’ve got to chop the marble out, and some of the floor, because it got on the floor, and they can’t get it out,” Brown said. “So, yeah, it’s costly, expensive, and somebody’s got to pay for it.”
WIVB reached out to the Erie County Sheriff's Department, who said that no charges have been filed yet.
“The Gilbane | Turner team has worked diligently to create a respectful and supportive environment on this project,” the company’s statement read. “We have made significant investments in jobsite amenities to support the trade workers performing demanding work, often in challenging weather conditions. They deserve a professional and respectful workplace. The actions of a very small number of individuals do not reflect the values or conduct of the approximately 8,000 people who have worked on this project to date. They demonstrate professionalism, pride, and respect each and every day.“
