The Herky statue outside Atlas World Grill fell victim to an alcohol-induced scuffle early Saturday morning, leading police to make their first arrest for vandalism to one of the 75 University of Iowa mascots scattered throughout the community.

A concerned woman witnessed the vandalism to the American Gothawk statue at the corner of Iowa Avenue and Dubuque Street that ended in an amputated Herky-arm still gripping a pitchfork. She described the suspect as wearing a black shirt and black cowboy hat. A few minutes after the call, police caught up with Tyler Cole Everson at 10 S. Linn St.

When asked by police for identification, Everson fled on foot and was apprehended about two blocks later, officials said. According to the police report, "The subject admitted soon after that he had been upset after a confrontation with a group of guys and 'tweaked,' then breaking the statue in anger."

Everson, 19, of Clinton, said he was in town to celebrate a friend's birthday but denied breaking off the statue's arm.

"I didn't do it," said Everson, who added he hit the Herky in the face and assumed that was the damage officers were talking to him about.

At the time of the incident, Everson had a blood alcohol level of .254, more than three times the legal limit to drive, officers said.

Everson is being charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief, public intoxication and interference with official acts. The maximum penalty for the criminal mischief charge is one year in jail or a $1,000 fine.

Josh Schamberger, president of the Iowa City/Coralville Convention and Visitors Bureau, said there have been 15 to 20 incidents of vandalism to the statues. The "Herky on Parade" project is meant to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Kinnick Stadium.

Everson's court date has not yet been set. He said he plans to attend with one of his friends who will admit to vandalizing the statue.

"He is going to confess," Everson said, adding that while he didn't see the act, his friend said the arm was "already torn off somewhat."

Each Herky is valued at $5,000, and Schamberger said the American Gothawk damage total is about $800. Two other Herkys were damaged Friday night. Damage to the Rhinestone Cowgirl and the We Can Do It Herky! totaled about $800, Schamberger said.

"We haven't had any problems since late May, so it's unfortunate that this happened," he said. "I hope the fun part of damaging these things has passed.."

Schamberger said it will take several weeks for the three statues to be repaired.