Grave markers damaged at Fayetteville cemetery

Unlike cases of vandalism that have plagued more historic sections of Cross Creek Cemetery in years past, families said the damage done to Cross Creek Cemetery No. 5 – the newest section of the sprawling graveyard off Ann Street – appears to have been caused by careless workers.

Vehicles ripped up portions of the cemetery, leaving deep tire tracks in the mud. Floral arrangements were knocked over, metal grave markers were bent and some photos had been run over and left on the ground.

"This is their job to come out here and bury your loved ones. They should do it with respect and pride – take some pride in your work. Driving a tractor over other people's stones is not pride, and there is no respect in that," said Paul Carrillo, who has relatives buried in the cemetery. "They're just not taking the proper care when they come out here."

There was no immediate word from cemetery caretakers about the cause of the damage and any plans to repair it.