On Monday night, March 16, 2026, a 40-year-old man caused approximately $240,000 in “catastrophic damage” to the Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit in Seattle.
According to the Seattle Police Department, the following occurred:
Targeted Destruction: The suspect broke into a secure outdoor garden area and destroyed roughly 12 glass plant sculptures, each valued at about $20,000.
Violent Confrontation: When confronted by security, the man allegedly threw glass shards at a guard and attempted to stab them multiple times with a broken piece of glass.
Arrest and Charges: Police followed a trail of shattered glass to find the suspect, who remained combative during his arrest. He faces charges of first-degree burglary, second-degree assault, and first-degree malicious mischief.
Museum Status: The damaged art has been removed, and museum officials stated they plan to replace the pieces in the coming weeks. The museum reopened for its regular hours the following morning.