A famous centenary in Northumberland National Park in the UK was felled overnight and police captured the 16-year-old culprit.
Located in Sycamore Gap near Hadrian’s Wall, the tree was featured in the 1991 film, “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.”
The iconic Hadrian’s Wall dates back to the Roman Empire, with construction beginning in 122 AD by order of Emperor Hadrian, who was visiting Britain at the time.
The tree is not that old, but is estimated to be between 200 and 300 years old, according to reports.
On Thursday morning, images showed the large tree on its side, separated from its heart-shaped stump.
Northumberland National Park officials issued a statement about the fallen tree after its discovery.
“The Northumberland National Park Authority can confirm that sadly the famous Sycamore Gap tree fell overnight. We have reason to believe it has been deliberately felled,” the statement read. “We are working with the relevant agencies and partners interested in this iconic North East landmark and will publish further details once they are known.”
The Northumbria Police Department investigated the matter, condemned the vandalism and promised to bring those responsible to justice.
“The tree is a world-renowned landmark and the vandalism has caused shock and anger throughout the local community and beyond,” the department said.
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Police said it appeared to be a deliberate act of violence.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness said she was devastated the famous tree was gone.
“That tree was ours,” he said. “It was an iconic North East landmark standing in our beautiful Northumberland. I am incandescent that this appears to be a deliberate act of vandalism. I will be raising it personally today. I know Northumbria Police are at the scene and officers will do everything they can. “Everything possible to catch whoever is behind this. Terrible news”.
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In the afternoon, police arrested a 16-year-old boy in connection with the incident.
Police said the teen remained in custody and was assisting police with their investigation.
Still, the investigation remains open and the department asks anyone with information to visit its website and click on the “Tell Us Something” page or call the department directly.