HOPKINSVILLE, KY – The city is asking for the community’s help following the theft of veteran grave markers from Cave Springs Cemetery and Riverside Cemetery. At this time, 27 markers are known to have been stolen from the two cemeteries.

These markers are more than bronze pieces. They represent the service, sacrifice, and memory of veterans who served our country, and their theft is deeply troubling to the families affected and to our entire community.

The city is working closely with the Hopkinsville Police Department, area salvage yards, and other community partners to identify those responsible and, whenever possible, recover the stolen markers. Additional security measures, including cameras and enhanced surveillance, will also be installed to help protect the city’s cemetery properties.

Families with loved ones buried at Cave Springs Cemetery, Riverside Cemetery, or other cemeteries across the county are encouraged to visit their loved one’s gravesite and check for any missing veteran markers or other memorial items.

Anyone who discovers a missing marker, has information about the thefts, happens to witness suspicious activity around a cemetery, or notices unusual activity involving cemetery markers is asked to contact the City of Hopkinsville Public Works Department at 270-890-0600. Public Works is coordinating directly with the Hopkinsville Police Department so information can be documented and shared with law enforcement as appropriate.

The city also asks residents to remain watchful around our cemeteries and report anything that appears suspicious. Community awareness can play an important role in protecting these sacred spaces and helping prevent additional thefts.

Our cemeteries are places of remembrance, reflection, and respect, and the veterans laid to rest there deserve our deepest gratitude and dignity.

We remain committed to caring for our cemeteries, supporting the families whose loved ones are buried there, and doing everything reasonably possible to protect the memorials that honor those who served our nation. We ask the community to join us in respecting their memory, watching over these grounds, and helping ensure they remain places of honor for generations to come.

| STAY UPDATED ON LOCAL NEWS: Sign up for the midday Christian County Now newsletter.