The statue sits on the corner of Third Street and Church Avenue in Lee Plaza.
According to the Roanoke Police Department, on Wednesday, July 22 just before midnight, an officer was driving in the area of 200 Church Avenue SW when he observed the Robert E. Lee Monument lying on its side, broken into two pieces. Preliminary investigation and evidence indicated that the monument was damaged intentionally. The statue as been removed and as been placed in storage by the city of Roanoke.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call (540) 344-8500 and share what you know. You can also send a text to 274637; please begin the text with “RoanokePD” to ensure its properly sent. Both calls and texts can remain anonymous.