A tip from the public helped police find a truck that backed into the Islamic Center of Laurel on September 5 causing over $10,000 worth of damage.
Laurel Police Chief Richard McLaughlin said the truck was taken from a local business without permission and returned later. The incident was initially thought to be vandalism, but it was reclassified as a hate crime based on information received from the Council for American - Islamic Relations.
" This was an unauthorized use of the vehicle by unknown persons, "Chief McLaughlin says." It doesn't appear that this was a hate crime as reported, more likely an unfamiliar driver. The incident is still under investigation. "
No one was inside at the time and no injuries were reported.
Police are still looking for the driver.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Laurel Police Department at 301-498-0092.
