Large discolored numbers found in the grass on the National Mall have turned a quiet patch of Washington, D.C., lawn into the center of a federal investigation.
The markings appeared to show the sequence “8647” near the World War II Memorial, one of the most visited and photographed areas in the nation’s capital. Images from the ground and from elevated viewpoints showed the figures spread across a wide section of grass, drawing attention from news outlets, political observers, and visitors.
Officials have not said who created the markings, when they were made, or what caused the discoloration. Federal authorities responded after reports came in and began examining the area for evidence.
What Investigators Know So Far
Authorities collected grass samples to help determine how the numbers appeared. Testing is expected to show whether the discoloration came from chemicals, another substance, or some other method. Officials have not confirmed any specific cause.