A bronze statue honoring Olympic gold medalist gymnast Suni Lee has been stolen from Phalen Regional Park in St. Paul, Minnesota, leaving city officials and community members outraged. The theft represents not just a crime, but an attack on a symbol of local pride and achievement, according to city Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez.

The bronze bust of Lee was unveiled during a special ceremony on Sunday, July 30, 2023, at the Phalen Lakeside Activity Center. The unveiling was a surprise for Lee herself, who attended the ceremony and looked on with delight and amazement as the statue was revealed. The event was held as both the state of Minnesota and the city of St. Paul officially proclaimed July 30 as Sunisa Lee Day in honor of the gymnastics champion.

Rodriguez, who was present at the original unveiling ceremony, expressed his frustration and anger over the theft. The Parks and Recreation director emphasized that the statue was meant to be a lasting tribute to Lee's historic achievements and an inspiration for the entire community.

Suni Lee made history at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where she captured the gold medal in the women's all-around gymnastics competition. Her victory was particularly significant as she became the first Hmong-American to win an Olympic gold medal, bringing immense pride to St. Paul's large Hmong community and the broader Twin Cities area.

The statue was positioned at Phalen Regional Park, a popular recreational destination in St. Paul, where it served as a source of inspiration for visitors and a symbol of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. The bronze bust was accessible to all community members and had become a point of pride for local residents.

The theft has prompted an investigation by local authorities, though specific details about when the statue was discovered missing or potential suspects have not been released. The incident has sparked concern about the security of public art installations and memorials throughout the city.

Lee's Olympic achievement resonated deeply within the St. Paul community, particularly among the Hmong population, which has strong ties to the area. Her success story represents the fulfillment of the American dream for many immigrant families and serves as motivation for young athletes throughout Minnesota.

City officials are working to determine the next steps following the theft, including whether the statue will be replaced and what additional security measures might be implemented to protect public art installations. The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of outdoor monuments and the need for enhanced protection of community symbols.

The original ceremony in 2023 was attended by numerous community members, local officials, and Lee's family and friends. The event celebrated not only her Olympic achievement but also her role as a representative of the diverse communities that call St. Paul home.

As the investigation continues, the theft serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting public art and monuments that celebrate local heroes and inspire future generations. The missing statue represents more than just bronze and metal – it symbolizes the dreams and aspirations of an entire community that takes pride in Lee's groundbreaking achievements on the world stage.