Cary Hindu Temple Vandalized In Early Morning Attack

In the early hours of Sunday, January 18, 2026, a quiet North Carolina community was shaken by an act of vandalism at one of its most prominent religious sites. The Sri Venkateswara of North Carolina Hindu temple, located in Cary, became the scene of a targeted attack that has left both local worshippers and law enforcement searching for answers.

According to reports from WTVD and WRAL, the incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. when surveillance cameras at the temple captured a group of at least five individuals approaching the premises. The footage, which has since been reviewed by the Cary Police Department, shows these individuals running toward a small sedan before hastily leaving the area. The urgency of their escape, caught on camera, suggests a level of premeditation that’s left investigators determined to uncover both the motive and the identities behind the act.

Shortly after the suspects fled, temple staff and worshippers discovered that the Dvarapalaka statue, a significant and symbolic figure standing at the temple’s entrance, had been damaged. The statue, which traditionally represents a guardian at the threshold of Hindu temples, now stands as a stark reminder of the night’s events. For many in the local Hindu community, the attack feels not only like a physical blow to a sacred space but also a symbolic affront to their sense of security and belonging in Cary.

The Cary Police Department, now leading the investigation, has confirmed that detectives are working diligently to identify those involved. Officials have made it clear that every effort is being made to determine the circumstances surrounding the damage, as well as any potential motives. They have emphasized the importance of community assistance in solving the case and have reached out to the public for help. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Cary Crimestoppers at (919) 460-4636 or to submit tips anonymously via www.p3tips.com/1242.

“You don’t have to reveal your identity,” authorities have assured, hoping that the guarantee of anonymity will encourage witnesses or those with knowledge of the incident to come forward. This approach reflects a broader strategy by law enforcement to foster trust and cooperation within the community, particularly in sensitive cases involving places of worship.

For residents of Cary, the Sri Venkateswara temple is much more than just a building; it’s a hub of cultural, spiritual, and social activity. The temple regularly hosts festivals, educational programs, and community gatherings, serving as a home away from home for many Hindu families in the region. The Dvarapalaka statue, now damaged, greeted visitors with a sense of protection and tradition—a role that feels especially poignant in the wake of the vandalism.

While this is not the first time a place of worship in the United States has been targeted, each incident resonates deeply within its community. The attack in Cary has prompted concern not only among temple members but also among local leaders and neighbors from other faith backgrounds. Such incidents often reignite conversations about religious tolerance, community safety, and the need for vigilance against hate-driven acts.

The investigation itself is ongoing, with police combing through surveillance footage and other evidence in hopes of identifying the individuals responsible. According to WRAL, the suspects’ actions were captured clearly enough on camera to determine that there were five people involved, all of whom left the scene in a small sedan. The vehicle’s make and model have not yet been released to the public, but detectives are hopeful that someone in the community may recognize the car or the individuals seen in the footage.

In recent years, law enforcement agencies across the country have increasingly relied on community tips and digital platforms to aid in their investigations. The use of anonymous tip lines, such as the one promoted by Cary Crimestoppers, has proven effective in breaking cases that might otherwise go unsolved. By offering a secure and confidential way for people to share information, police hope to overcome the barriers that sometimes prevent witnesses from coming forward.

For many in Cary, the vandalism at the Sri Venkateswara temple is a painful reminder of the challenges that minority communities can face, even in places that pride themselves on diversity and inclusion. Yet, in the aftermath of such events, communities often come together in solidarity, reaffirming their commitment to mutual respect and understanding.

Local officials and religious leaders have called for calm and patience as the investigation continues. They have also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to support one another during this time of uncertainty. “We are working to identify the individuals involved and to determine the circumstances behind the damage,” police reiterated in statements to the press.

As the days pass, the temple’s congregation has begun to pick up the pieces—both literally, in terms of repairing the damaged statue, and figuratively, as they seek to restore a sense of peace and normalcy. Many have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from neighbors and other faith groups, who have condemned the act and offered assistance in various forms.

In the broader context, the incident has sparked renewed discussions about the importance of protecting places of worship and ensuring that all residents feel safe practicing their faith. It has also prompted some to reflect on the role that surveillance technology and community engagement play in maintaining public safety.

While the investigation is still in its early stages, police remain optimistic that with the help of the public, those responsible will be brought to justice. In the meantime, the Sri Venkateswara temple continues to welcome worshippers, determined not to let an act of vandalism overshadow the spirit of resilience and unity that defines its community.

The story of the damaged Dvarapalaka statue is now part of the temple’s history—a chapter marked by adversity, but also by the collective resolve to stand together in the face of challenge. As Cary looks ahead, the hope is that by shedding light on this incident and seeking accountability, the community can move forward with renewed strength and understanding.