A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage in connection with the felling of the 300-year-old Sycamore Gap tree in northern England.
The teenager was arrested as local authorities and park officials expressed sadness and bewilderment over the destruction of the historic Sycamore Gap Tree landmark, which had stood for centuries at Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. Northumbria police announced that the boy is in custody and is assisting with their inquiries.
The felled sycamore gap tree, believed to be around 300 years old, and one of the most photographed trees in the world, had become an integral part of the local landscape and had witnessed countless seasons over the centuries. It gained fame when it appeared in the 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.”
Authorities suspect that the damage to the tree was a deliberate act of vandalism. Superintendent Kevin Waring of Northumbria police stated, “This is a world-renowned landmark and the events of today have caused significant shock, sadness, and anger throughout the local community and beyond.
“An investigation was immediately launched following this vandalism, and this afternoon we have arrested one suspect in connection with our inquiries.
“Given our investigation remains at a very early stage, we are keeping an open mind. I am appealing to the public for information to assist us – if you have seen or heard anything suspicious that may be of interest to us, please let us know.”
Local reports suggest that the Sycamore Gap tree was skillfully cut down with a sharp chainsaw, indicating that the perpetrator likely had knowledge of what they were doing. Due to high winds from Storm Agnes, residents reported not hearing any noise during the night and awoke to find the tree had been severed from its stump.
