Video: FBI Investigates Threat Against Ole Miss Grove

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OXFORD, Miss. (Press Release) — A handwritten note threatening damage to trees and shrubs in the Grove at the University of Mississippi and signed “Hail State/Go to Hell TSUN” was turned over to the Jackson office of the FBI today (Nov. 26) by UM Police Chief Calvin Sellers.

The note, which arrived on campus late Tuesday (Nov. 25), said:

“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.”

Law enforcement authorities are taking the threat seriously and are encouraging fans to report suspicious behavior, Sellers said. In addition, he said, law enforcement resources have been added to address fan safety inside and outside the stadium.

“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,” 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 revived memories of Alabama fan Harvey Updyke Jr., who pled guilty to poisoning the iconic Toomer’s Corner oaks near the Auburn University campus following the 2010 Iron Bowl.