Federal investigators are examining a large "8647" marking cut into the grass of the National Mall's west lawn, visible on a Washington Monument webcam. US Park Police collected grass samples and said the cause of the discoloration is unknown, while the Department of the Interior called the act "deranged vandalism." The appearance of the numbers revived attention to an April case involving James Comey and arrives weeks before the US 250th anniversary events on the Mall. The investigation is ongoing.
Mystery '8647' Etching on National Mall Lawn Prompts Federal Investigation
The numerals 8647 faintly etched into the grounds of the National Mall in Washington DC on 11 June.Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters(Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters)
Federal authorities are investigating a large numerical marking — "8647" — that appears to have been etched into the grass on the west lawn of the Washington Monument on the National Mall. Live webcam images on Thursday afternoon showed a clearly visible "8" with fainter impressions of the "6", "4" and "7" nearby.
Investigation Underway
US Park Police said they responded at approximately 11:30 a.m. to a report of vandalism and that grass samples have been collected for testing. "The numbers '8647' were marked in the grass," the agency said. Officials added that the cause of the discoloration has not yet been determined and the investigation remains active.
Department of the Interior: "This is deranged vandalism. Any threat against the president is taken very seriously by the department, and our US Park Police will investigate this incident and hold those responsible accountable."
Context And Reactions
Observers noted the possible symbolism: in restaurant slang, "86" commonly means to remove or get rid of something, while Donald Trump is the 47th president of the United States — a combination that has drawn attention and concern. Authorities have not publicly concluded whether the marking represents a threat, a prank, or some other act of vandalism.
The episode also recalled an April case in which former FBI director James Comey was federally charged over a photograph he posted showing seashells arranged as "8647" on a beach. The Department of Justice charged Comey with two felonies alleging he made and transmitted a threat against the president; Comey has pleaded not guilty and has said he will contest the charges.
The discovery comes weeks before celebrations planned for the United States' 250th anniversary, when events billed as the "Great American State Fair" are scheduled across the National Mall. It also follows recent renovations to parts of the Mall overseen during the Trump administration, including a reported $13.1 million refurbishment of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.
Officials said they are continuing their investigation and reviewing surveillance footage and physical evidence. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact US Park Police; at this stage, no arrests or official motives have been announced.
Help us improve.
