UXBRIDGE, MASS. (WHDH) - Uxbridge Police are trying to connect two recent crimes at a local cemetery.

Investigators believe two men are behind a case of vandalism at the Old Richardson Family Cemetery. Several gravestones were cracked and knocked over.

“It’s disgraceful,” said local resident Eddie Fournier. “People should have more respect for the deceased.”

Firefighters noticed the damage while responding to a brush fire in the area.

A local cemetery association maintains the property with graves dating back to the 1700s. Two Civil War veterans are buried there.

“This is the worst in at least 15 or 20 years,” said Sheryl Romasco, head of the Uxbridge Historical Cemetery Association.

Since the vandalism was first reported, someone stepped forward with a picture of two young men walking away from the area about the time of the fire. Police now believe the fire was intentionally set.

The two men have since been identified, and police are investigating whether or not they are connected.

The cemetery association is seeking donations to help restore the cemetery.

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