Cary, North Carolina, USA: Local authorities are investigating an incident of vandalism reported at the Sri Venkateshwara Temple of North Carolina in Cary during the early morning hours of January 18, according to temple officials and police.

Temple representatives stated that a Dvarapalaka statue, one of the guardian deity sculptures positioned outside the temple premises, was found damaged. The Cary Police Department confirmed it was notified of the incident and has initiated an investigation. No arrests have been made as of publication.

According to statements from temple officials cited in media reports, surveillance cameras captured footage of individuals leaving the temple grounds in a small sedan shortly after the damage occurred. Police officials said the footage is currently under review as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Temple authorities clarified that the inner sanctum was not affected and that regular religious services have continued without disruption. Restoration of the damaged statue is underway and is being carried out in accordance with traditional religious practices, officials added.

The incident has caused concern among members of the local Hindu community. National advocacy groups, including the Hindu American Foundation, issued statements urging a thorough investigation and highlighting broader concerns regarding vandalism targeting religious institutions. Police have not indicated whether the case is being investigated as a hate crime.

Authorities have requested that anyone with information related to the incident contact the Cary Police Department.