Cary Police Seek Tips After Temple Dvarapalaka Statue Damaged

A Dvarapalaka guardian statue in front of the Sri Venkateswara of North Carolina temple in Cary was found damaged after at least five people fled the scene, Cary police said. The incident was captured on the temple’s security video, which shows several individuals running to a small sedan and speeding away.

Police reported the damage occurred around 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 18. Detectives are working to identify the people seen on video and have asked the public to come forward with any information that could help the investigation. Anyone with tips was asked to contact Cary Crime Stoppers at (919) 460-4636; tips can be submitted anonymously.

The statue, known as a Dvarapalaka, functions as a guardian figure at the temple entrance. Damage to religious symbols and structures can have an outsized impact on congregants and the broader community beyond the physical loss, heightening feelings of vulnerability among worshippers and neighbors. The Sri Venkateswara of North Carolina serves residents who gather there for spiritual, cultural and social activities; vandalism of a visible religious symbol can disrupt those routines and the sense of safety that community institutions provide.

From a public health perspective, incidents that target places of worship can contribute to community stress and anxiety. Local health providers and community groups often see increased demand for emotional support after such events, particularly among groups who already face social marginalization. The response from law enforcement and community leaders plays a role in restoring trust and reducing fear; clear communication about investigative steps and avenues for anonymous reporting can help.

Cary police said the security footage showed at least five individuals running to a small sedan, then leaving the area at speed. Investigators have not released descriptions of the suspects or the vehicle beyond that detail. The department is asking anyone who was in the area around the temple around 3:00 a.m. on Jan. 18, or anyone with dashcam or doorbell footage, to contact Cary Crime Stoppers at (919) 460-4636.

The episode underscores the importance of protecting houses of worship and community spaces in Wake County. Neighbors and congregations can support one another by sharing information with investigators, checking surveillance systems, and offering emotional and logistical support to affected members. Detectives continue to review available video and follow leads; as the investigation proceeds, public tips may prove critical to identifying those responsible.

For Cary residents, the next step is simple and practical: report any relevant information to Cary Crime Stoppers and remain alert to unusual activity around community institutions. The outcome of this investigation will affect not only the temple community but the broader sense of safety across the town.