U.S. Park Police are investigating vandalism on the National Mall after the numbers 86 47 were found etched into the grass near the World War II Memorial. The markings, visible from aerial perspectives, have drawn attention due to their association with a politically charged slogan targeting President Donald Trump.
The incident was reported on Thursday, with authorities collecting grass samples for testing. The Interior Department condemned the vandalism, stating that any threat against the president would be taken seriously. The Secret Service deferred questions to the Park Police, which confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
The phrase 86 47 gained prominence after former FBI Director James Comey was indicted in April 2026 for posting an image of seashells arranged in the same pattern. Prosecutors alleged the post constituted a threat against Trump, the 47th president, while Comey denied any violent intent. The term 86 is slang for removing or eliminating something, often used in restaurant contexts.
The vandalism occurred near the site of Trump’s UFC Freedom 250 event, scheduled for the weekend. National Guard personnel and Park Police were present at the scene, with the area later roped off. The cause of the grass discoloration remains undetermined.
The Interior Department emphasized that vandalism on the National Mall would not be tolerated, while some observers have linked the incident to ongoing political tensions surrounding Trump’s second administration. The investigation continues as authorities seek to identify the responsible party.