Vandals flood Foothill Pediatrics

Authorities are looking for suspects after vandals flooded a Sonora doctors’ office Monday night.

Someone apparently stuck a garden hose into the seam of a back door at Foothill Pediatric Medical Center and left the water running all night.

A landscaper discovered the hose running at full power early Tuesday morning and called the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office to report the damage. About 28 rooms were flooded with ankle-deep water on the 12000 block of Cabezut Road.

Owners estimated the water caused $75,000 to $100,000 in damage, according to Sgt. Jeff Wilson.

“We don’t know who did it and we don’t have any suspect info at this time,” Wilson said.

There were no surveillance cameras in the area of the vandalism, however, a Sheriff’s log note said fingerprints were found on a window and were being analyzed.

“They propped the hose right next to the door and turned it on full blast,” said Yesenia Grazioli, who handles the pediatric office’s billing.

She said the water damaged floors and carpeting, which had been installed in December, as well as some electrical medical equipment. She believes the damage will be covered by insurance, but it’s too early to say exactly how expensive the vandalism will prove to be.

Workers have ripped out wall panels and installed dozens of fans to help dry out the building. Grazioli said the business will open again about 1 p.m. today, but it could take a few weeks or even a month before the damage can be fully repaired.

“Our patients have been very, very understanding,” she said. “We’re just trying to get back on our feet.”