Chicago 'Bean' Graffiti: 7 Charged With Vandalizing Sculpture

CHICAGO, IL — Chicago's Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean" normally glistens in the sun, but its shiny stainless steel surface was marred by graffiti early Tuesday. Seven people are currently in custody in connection with the vandalism, NBC reports.

The accused suspects are members of a known group of graffiti artists in the city called the 35th Street crew, according to NBC. They were spotted spray-painting the surface of The Bean just after midnight.

Police say they also vandalized parts of Maggie Daley Park, including the Cancer Survivor's Wall.

Crews worked quickly to clean up the graffiti and restore the sculpture to its glistening glory. The graffiti was removed before 11 a.m., Chicago Tribune reports.

The incident triggered ire among Chicagoans, who are known for fiercely defending their city. Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot admitted that she was initially "pretty pissed off."

People took to social media to express their own disappointment about The Bean graffiti.

At press time police had yet to release the suspects' identities.

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