Statues beheaded, Catholic church in Hayward vandalized

HAYWARD, Calif. (KGO) -- A disturbing act of vandalism can still be seen at St. Bede Catholic Church in Hayward.

Someone cut the hands off a statue of the Virgin Mary and cut the heads off three figures kneeling before her. The vandal also cut off the head of a sheep statue.

The Diocese of Oakland told ABC7 News it happened a few weeks ago and has been reported to police.

A parishioner said it's happened before. Last time, the Virgin Mary's head was cut off and was repaired.

The Diocese issued a statement that reads: "The violence displayed in this act is senseless and unjustifiable. As Our Lady of Fatima calls us, we pray for mercy for those harmed by this act, the perpetrators and all who are affected by violence."