Local police are investigating the destruction and theft of items from one of the city’s most iconic and recognizable boats, the Lorena Sternwheeler.

Officials hope the criminals will be swiftly brought to justice.

According to Zanesville Police Detective Phil Michel, on Thursday, August 26, police received a report of a breaking and entering at the Zane Landing Park.

The Lorena Sternwheeler had forcibly been entered and items were vandalized. Other items and equipment were stolen.

Muskingum County Commissioner Jim Porter said just some of the items included tables and chairs as well as a depth finder.

An exact monetary value on damaged or items stolen is not presently known.

The Lorena Sternwheeler has been docked since early August while its one and only captain is out on medical leave.

The boat is docked next to the freshly painted concrete shelter house near Zane’s Landing Trail.

Be sure to check out: Local artist paints Zane’s Landing pavilion.

Michel added that the crime is believed to have occurred sometime between Monday, August 23 and Thursday, August 26.

Unfortunately, Porter said that recently installed cameras inside the boat were circumvented.

“The thieves noticed the cameras and took the storage device with them,” Porter explained.

Law enforcement isn’t saying if the footage was also backed up off-site, as is now common, as the investigation is still ongoing.

Muskingum County Commissioner Mollie Crooks added that the Lorena is a shared asset to the community and that it’s disheartening that anyone would steal items from or damage such a relict.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Zanesville Police Department at (740) 455-0700. Reports can be made anonymously.