Police in the Collin County city of Princeton are looking for tips after a rash of vandalism at the city's cemetery over the weekend.
Police Chief James Waters says 44 markers or headstones were knocked over, damaged or destroyed.
Several urns and keepsakes were also smashed and scattered.
"They can't believe someone would come in here and deliberately do this," Waters said. "These families have been through enough grief of having to lay their loved ones to rest."
Some markers in the cemetery date back to the 1800s.
Kenny Campbell, secretary-treasurer of the Princeton Cemetery Association Board, says many are irreplaceable.
Local
The latest news from around North Texas.
"There's one that's a white stone that's broken in half," he said. "Initially, you know, I'm mad, especially when there's no reason for doing it."
Waters says police have pegged the investigation a "top priority."
Police believe the vandals were on foot and that they are likely looking for more than one person.
Anyone with information should contact the department's non-emergency line at 972-736-3901.
Campbell says the association has been in contact with its insurance company but does not know yet if the damage will be covered.
