Vandals have targeted the National Mall with multiple separate ‘8647’ markings, a blood-written message on the Washington Monument, and damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The vandalism trend has prompted federal officials to warn of a growing threat.

Details of the Vandalism

According to Interior Department communication director Katie Martin, the first known incident targeting the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool occurred on June 9. The vandalism was initially not publicized to avoid inspiring copycats, but a trend emerged nonetheless.

The Reflecting Pool was vandalized on the day it reopened after restoration and repainting, with the first perpetrator leaving ‘razor-blade-like slashes’ along the liner in the southern middle section of the pool. The damages totaled over 300 feet, with some cuts being slits while other sections were cut out entirely.

Among the incidents cited by the Interior Department were multiple ‘8647’ markings. In a separate case, an individual used their own blood to write ‘I’ve come’ on the Washington Monument.

Investigation and Response

The administration has interpreted the number ’86’ as a political threat, pointing to its common use in the restaurant industry to mean removing or refusing service, while ’47’ appears to refer to President Trump as the 47th president.

U.S. Park Police have posted a bulletin asking for public assistance in identifying a suspect in connection with the vandalism. The suspect is wanted for destruction of government property.

The White House has announced plans to fence off the Reflecting Pool ahead of the Fourth of July, when the area will serve as a fireworks launch site. The fencing is being installed earlier than originally planned due to the increase in vandalism.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.