Virgin Mary Statue At St. Thomas Destroyed By Students: Officials

SAINT PAUL, MN — Officials at the University of St. Thomas say vandals destroyed a statue of the Virgin Mary. The incident happened earlier this month in Ireland Hall.

The statue, which had been in the university’s oldest dormitory "for many years," was "purposefully dropped and shattered," according to the university.

"This was a grave act of disrespect, which has deeply hurt many in our community."

The university's public safety department identified the students involved. They will be subject to a student conduct process, officials said.

"We condemn this act of religious disrespect, are saddened by the pain this event has caused, and expect all in our community to respect our important faith symbols."