Cedar Rapids police investigate ghost-like graffiti

Police said they have no indication that graffiti found in several locations in Cedar Rapids is gang-related or racially motivated.

Someone has used black spray paint to mark at least five locations in the city with the same design. Police believe it may be a depiction of a ghost, with the letters "W" and "G" on either side.

"We don't have an indication on what it means for sure," Sgt. Matt Welsh said.

The graffiti was first reported to police on April 21, but there have not been any new reports for a few weeks. The same design was painted in the 700 and 500 blocks of Third Street SE, the 200 block of Second Street SE, on a bridge support in the 300 block of Diagonal Drive SW and on a piece of wood at Wells Fargo, 317 Second St. SW.

Police sent a memo to area law enforcement about the graffiti, but there have been no reports of the same graffiti in places outside Cedar Rapids.

Welsh said it seems like the people responsible for the graffiti put it in public places where it would be noticed. It does not appear to be directed at any specific individuals, he said. The people responsible could be charged with criminal mischief.

Anyone with information about the graffiti is asked to call police at (319) 286-5400.