Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Teen Tourist Charged After Dousing Met Masterpiece

The Met reports only minor, repairable damage with restoration estimated at about $1,000.

Overview

  • Police identified the suspect as 19-year-old Joshua Vaurin, who was arrested at the museum on Monday afternoon and later arraigned on criminal mischief charges.
  • Investigators say he splashed water on Ingres’s The Princess de Broglie and Girolamo dai Libri’s Madonna and Child with Saints before tearing two tapestries.
  • The museum said no injuries were reported and conservation staff expect straightforward repairs.
  • Authorities said Vaurin was taken to a hospital prior to arraignment, and he had been staying at a Times Square hotel.
  • No motive has been provided; a New York Post report that he appeared impaired and was turned over by his mother remains unconfirmed.