PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Police are searching for several suspects wanted for vandalism at Termini Brothers Bakery in South Philadelphia.
The business’ surveillance cameras were rolling on Monday morning as the group first spray-painted someone else’s van parked in front of the Termini property. Then the group of about five people climbed up onto the roof of the building on South 8th Street and defaced the exterior.
“To see our private property defaced is a punch to the gut,” the bakery posted on Instagram. “We’ve experienced this before, but we won’t lie – it hurts every time. We’ll clean up this mess and continue doing what we do best, but come on, Philly – you can do better.”
The vandalism comes as the family is still dealing with the passing of 86-year-old Vincent Termini Sr., the second-generation baker who carried on the 104-year legacy of the business.
“My father was so passionate about making sure the business always looked presentable. He wanted it to be a beacon of South Philly,” said co-owner Joseph Termini.
The bakery has been a staple in South Philadelphia, known for its homemade Italian pastries, but also for making customers feel at home when they walk through the door.
“Get your act together guys. I mean, come on, grow up. You’re not little kids anymore. It’s 12 at night on a Monday. Go get a job. What are we doing here?” said Termini.
The Terminis say they purposely keep their lights on to prevent crime in the neighborhood.
The business says they’ll get through this and continue in their father’s footsteps to keep this pristine family bakery just the way he left it.
“He was proud of that, so we were obviously going to make sure his values and his wishes are carried through for decades to come,” Vincent Termini Jr.
Anyone who recognizes the suspects is asked to call police.
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