Austin police officer Chris Irwin said whoever was responsible could be charged with theft and criminal mischief. Both are misdemeanors. The level of charge depends on how much manpower would be involved with switching the sign back, as well as the cost, Irwin said.

Bowie died Sunday after an 18-month battle with cancer just days after the release of his latest album, “Blackstar.”

The Austin Transportation Department released a statement saying the sign will be kept in place as a "makeshift memorial" until Tuesday.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com