Vandals Etch '86 47' Into National Mall Grass Near Reflecting Pool

U.S. Park Police, the D.C. fire department and members of the National Guard responded Thursday to large numerals etched into grass on the National Mall near the Reflecting Pool. The markings showed the numbers 8, 6 and 7, with the 4 less clearly formed.

Officials said the term "86" is sometimes used in restaurants to mean removal and has been interpreted by some as a threat against President Trump, the 47th president.

The etchings sat near the base of the Reflecting Pool, which was recently renovated. Photos indicated the numbers were visible primarily from elevated positions such as the top of the Washington Monument. People on the ground saw only scattered brownish patches of grass near the World War II Memorial.

Similar numerals were found spray-painted in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in early May, according to National Park Service officials. Judy Scott Feldman, who heads the National Mall Coalition's board of directors, told the New York Times that the damage may reflect frustration over changes to the Mall.