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People throughout the Miss-Lou, state and nation were appalled last week when the Turning Angel statue was damaged after it was toppled from its pedestal.

The Angel was put in the Natchez City Cemetery to look over five young girls who were buried there after they died in a drug manufacturing plant explosion in 1908.

Over the years, the angel became known as the “Turning Angel” because it appeared to turn to look at cars as they drove by.

The angel had stood watch over the young girls for approximately 112 years and had gained landmark status for Natchez and was even the inspiration for a Greg Iles novel titled “The Turning Angel.”

On the morning of June 23, however, cemetery workers noticed the angel lying on its back beneath the pedestal, its wings damaged.

Natchez police officers worked swiftly to solve the mystery.

Investigators located surveillance video from surrounding properties that ultimately led to an arrest in the case.

Thanks to Natchez Police Department officers’ swift and excellent work we have a suspect is in custody, and he will have his day in court.

We encourage people to support efforts to restore the Turning Angel by donating to the cause. Contributions to the angel’s restoration can be made out to Natchez City Cemetery/Turning Angel Fund and mailed to P.O. Box 1738, Natchez, Mississippi 39121.

For more information, email natchezcitycemetery@msn.com.