Fort Wayne’s beloved Stoner’s Funstore, a local novelty shop known for its quirky items, fell victim to vandalism on Christmas Eve 2025. The incident involved a broken window at the store on South Harrison Street, sparking community outrage and calls for support just as the holiday season peaked.

What Happened at Stoner’s Funstore

Details emerged quickly after the vandalism hit the iconic shop. According to posts shared by the store on social media, someone smashed a window late on Christmas Eve. The damage was limited to the exterior, with no reports of theft or injuries. Store owners acted fast to repair the broken glass, ensuring they could reopen on time the next day.

Local police launched an investigation right away. They reviewed security footage from nearby cameras and gathered statements from witnesses. No suspects have been named yet, but authorities believe it might be a random act rather than targeted malice. The timing, right before Christmas Day, added to the shock for many in the community who see the store as a fun holiday spot.

Fort Wayne has seen a slight uptick in minor property crimes this year, with vandalism reports rising by about 10 percent compared to 2024, based on recent city crime data. This event fits into that pattern, especially during busy holiday periods when opportunistic acts can occur.

Community Reaction and Support

Residents and customers rallied online and in person after news broke. Social media buzzed with messages of support, condemning the act and urging people to shop local. One user called it a “senseless hit on holiday cheer,” while others shared memories of visiting the store for costumes and gag gifts.

The store itself encouraged the community to show up and buy items as a way to bounce back. This response highlights how tight-knit Fort Wayne can be, especially for businesses that have been around for decades.

• Many locals pledged to visit the store soon to help with recovery.
• Online comments focused on the need for better neighborhood watch programs.
• Some suggested donating to a fund for small business security upgrades.

This outpouring ties into broader trends, like the push for community solidarity amid rising costs for small shops post-pandemic.

Business owners in the area expressed concern over similar incidents. A nearby retailer noted that vandalism can cost hundreds in repairs and lost sales, stressing the importance of quick police response.

History of Stoner’s Funstore

Stoner’s Funstore has been a Fort Wayne fixture since 1949, marking 76 years in business by 2025. Founded as a place for “funny goofy crap,” it offers everything from costumes to novelty items, drawing families year-round.

The shop survived challenges like the COVID-19 era, when many small businesses struggled. It even celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2024 with special events, boosting local tourism.

Here’s a quick look at key milestones in the store’s history:

This timeline shows the store’s resilience, making the recent vandalism feel like a temporary setback.

Over the years, it has become more than a retail spot. It hosts events and supports local artists, embedding itself in the city’s culture.

Impact on Local Businesses

The vandalism raises questions about safety for small shops in Fort Wayne. With holidays bringing more foot traffic, incidents like this can deter customers and strain budgets. Repair costs for the window alone could run into several hundred dollars, not counting any dip in sales.

Experts point to national trends where vandalism spiked in urban areas during 2025, linked to economic pressures. In Indiana, similar cases in cities like Indianapolis led to new grants for security cameras.

For Stoner’s, the event might inspire stronger community ties. Owners remain optimistic, focusing on positive holiday vibes rather than the damage.

This mirrors other recent events, such as minor disruptions at holiday light displays in the area, where quick fixes kept spirits high.

Looking Ahead After the Incident

As investigations continue, Stoner’s Funstore aims to turn this negative into a positive by highlighting local support. They plan to host a post-holiday sale to draw crowds and recover lost momentum.

The broader lesson here is the value of vigilance during festive times. Police advise businesses to install better lighting and report suspicious activity promptly.

Share your thoughts on this story in the comments below, and if you’re in Fort Wayne, consider stopping by Stoner’s to show support. Your stories and shares can help spread awareness about protecting local gems like this one.