ANGOLA - An Angola store was closed Monday morning after store owners discovered what appears to be racially based vandalism that took place inside of their store.

According to a Facebook post by Willow Tree Shoppes Monday, they closed their business after finding racial slurs made with spray paint throughout the inside of their store.

Angola Mayor Richard Hickman made a statement concerning the matter. Mayor Hickman said the City of Angola Police Department is investigating the incident.

The Mayor said “there is no question that this type of stupidity is not, nor will it ever be tolerated in our community.” He added “This in no way defines what our community is about. We will not tolerate the ignorance that goes along with this crime.”

Willow Tree Shoppes are located at 135 East Wendell Jacob Avenue in Angola.

The store posted Monday evening on Facebook that “the amount of love and support” coming their way “is very much appreciated”. They added “will be closed until further notice.”