Vandal smashes statues in Texas cathedral; damage pegged at $200,000

Published: 2004-01-14

SAN ANTONIO (CNS) -- San Fernando Cathedral, which was founded 272 years ago and is the oldest active cathedral in the United States, was the site of a bizarre scene early Jan. 13 as a 38-year-old San Antonio resident allegedly went on a rampage and smashed seven statues around the church sanctuary. Deacon Pat Rodgers, director of communications for the archdiocese, said the assailant told visitors they were "idolaters" and that he was there to "save them." The man, identified as Rogelio Rodriguez, was subdued by people in the church until police arrived. He faces felony criminal mischief charges for causing damage estimated to exceed $200,000. He was being held in Bexar County Jail on a $100,000 bond and was scheduled to be arraigned Jan. 14. Six of the seven statues that were ruined were about 100 years old; the seventh statue was commissioned for the cathedral's rededication last year following an extensive $5.8 million restoration. The church's cornerstone was laid in 1738; and the colonial-era portion of the church was built in the mid-1700s.

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