Contractor Brad Rowan parked his work van overnight at Vereb Funeral Home in Harrison this week in advance of a job at the building. He never dreamed, however, that it would be vandalized in the building’s parking lot along Freeport Road.

“I understand everyone is upset about the situation,” said Rowan, noting that his van was struck, apparently with a baseball bat, early Thursday.

Funeral home owner Patrick Vereb is embroiled in a felony investigation that alleges he took money for pet cremations that didn’t happen. He also is accused of giving customers ashes that weren’t from their pets, according to court documents.

Vereb, 70, owns funeral homes in Harrison and Hazelwood, as well as Eternity Pet Memorials. He was charged April 28 by the state Attorney General’s Office for theft, deceptive practices and receiving stolen property.

“I am 100% against what he is accused of doing,” Rowan said. “But it’s not helping to go around and destroy vehicles in the community.”

Harrison police posted to social media to alert the public of the criminal mischief, which happened overnight Wednesday in the rear parking lot at 1007 Freeport Road.

Chief Brian Turack was not available for comment Friday, nor was Officer Tyler Condron, who is investigating the case.

Vereb had been scheduled for a preliminary hearing Friday but waived the charges to court. His formal arraignment is scheduled for 2 p.m. June 18 at the Allegheny County Courthouse.

Authorities allege that Vereb stole about $660,000 from customers who paid for pet cremations, burials, returns of ashes and other services from 2021 to 2024. There are more than 6,500 victims to date.

The Attorney General’s Office has issued an alert to urge people to practice peaceful protests against Vereb.

The office recognized that the charges have caused anguish and heartbreak but reminds people that the criminal justice system allows for due process, according to the release.

Vereb could not be reached for comment at either of his funeral home locations Friday.

“I’m a strong supporter of animals,” Rowan said. “This is out of hand that someone took the law into their own hands.”

Harrison police encourage anyone who witnessed suspicious activity to call Condron at 724-224-3355.