Investigators suspect a Chicago-based gang of graffiti artists may be responsible for vandalizing museum exhibits and downtown businesses in Noblesville, authorities said today.

Evidence suggest that members of the Made U Look crew spray-painted two train cars at the Indiana Transportation Museum late July 6 or early July 7, Detective Wade Roberts said.

The group also may be responsible for the spray-painting of as many as 14 buildings and storefronts around the courthouse square late June 16 or early June 17, Roberts said.

The Made U Look crew, comprised of artists and painters, has vandalized trains, buildings and road underpasses in cities throughout the nation, including Indianapolis, according to authorities.

Organizers make no secret of their activities, Roberts said. They have a Web site that features pictures of members at work, he noted.

Members typically "tag" targets between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., Roberts said.

Authorities allege the crew put its trademark markings along with six members' nicknames on two train cars in the rail yard at the Indiana Transportation Museum along Ind. 19, near Ind. 32.

The train cars are part of a historic train exhibit. Visitors to the museum frequently use the trains to ride to the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

On one of the trains, vandals painted a memorial to a deceased acquaintance by drawing an angel and writing R.I.P. and "We miss you."

Call Fred Kelly at 1-317-444-2609.