News

Actions

FBI investigating threat to destroy Ole Miss Grove trees

Posted at 11:27 AM, Nov 27, 2014
and last updated 2014-11-27 11:27:05-05

Oxford, MS (WREG) — The FBI is investigating a written note threatening the trees and shrubs on the Ole Miss campus.

The poorly written note would appear to be written by a Mississippi State fan, though there is no proof.

The note, which was found Tuesday, reads, “What’s going to happen to ya’ll on the field Saturday Aint nothing compared to what’s going to happen on your beautiful campus. You won’t be one of the most pretty campus’s Next year. A lot of shrubs and trees are going to die; especially in the grove. Can’t stop us” (signed) “Hail State Go to Hell TSUN.”

Ole Miss says police are taking the threat seriously and are encouraging fans to report suspicious behavior

“This longtime football rivalry has separated families and friends for generations, but while it’s spirited, our attention has been focused mostly on the football field,” UM Police Chief Calvin Sellers said. “We encourage everyone to remember that this is a game, after all, not a time for hate. We are hopeful that passions have not escalated to the point that someone is prepared to do damage to a landmark for which all Mississippians take great pride.”

The threat is reminiscent of Alabama fan Harvey Updyke Jr., who pled guilty to poisoning the Toomer’s Corner oaks near the Auburn University campus after the Iron Bowl in 2010.