Murfreesboro Man Charged for Vandalism of East Nashville Rainbow Crosswalk

Metro Nashville police have arrested a Murfreesboro man who they say admitted to vandalizing East Nashville's rainbow crosswalk on July 2.

According to a release, 24-year-old Isaiah D. Tester was arrested Tuesday and charged with one count of vandalizing government property for pouring a “black paint-like liquid” on the crosswalk at the intersection of South 14th and Woodland streets. 

The vandalism occurred just days after the crosswalk was painted on June 29 during a community celebration that marked the end of Pride Month. The crosswalk was repainted on July 13. Police believe the liquid was windshield prep primer. The release notes that Tester was identified as a suspect following a Nashville Crime Stoppers tip. 

Tester worked for an unspecified vehicle window replacement company, and was driving a company van when the vandalism occurred. The company has reportedly fired Tester.

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“Tester is alleged to have admitted to the vandalism after being confronted by a co-worker,” the release reads. “Tester also admitted to the vandalism in an interview with detectives this afternoon.”

“We have got to stand up for our LGBTQ neighbors,” District 6 Councilmember Clay Capp told reporters following the vandalism. “An attack on anyone's equality is an attack on all of our equality.” 

Councilmember Emily Benedict, chair of the Metro Council's LGBTQ Caucus, offered a statement following the arrest. “We are deeply appreciative of the collaboration that led to the apprehension of the suspect," says Benedict. "We want to assure the public that we are committed to safeguarding every aspect of the city’s beautification efforts and will not tolerate any form of hatred towards Nashville’s diverse and vibrant community.”