The Brief
- Burglars devastated the Mercer Island Farmers Market storage area, stealing or destroying over $10,000 worth of essential electronics, emergency gear, and the market’s beloved mascot, Milo the gnome.
- Organizers and local vendors are now scrambling to raise funds through online donations and specialty sales to replace the equipment before the 2026 season kicks off.
- Despite the “heartless” vandalism, the community is determined to restore Milo and invites the public to support their recovery at the season opener on May 31.
MERCER ISLAND, Wash. – A theft at the Mercer Island Farmers Market storage area has left organizers in a pickle.
With just a couple of months left until opening day for the 2026 season, organizers are now scrambling to replace thousands of dollars in supplies. That includes everything from sound equipment and emergency gear to markers, signs, fans and other electronics.
“These people just kind of went at it. They knocked stuff over, they broke things,” said Ange Garrett, Market Manager, Mercer Island Farmers Market.
She says burglars left the place in shambles. The cost of items damaged or taken, is estimated at upwards of $10,000. …