NORTHAMPTON — City police are investigating graffiti directed at “radical Islam” along the bike path in the area of Brewster Court.
The message was etched in chalk on a cement ledge that lines the path. Police Chief Jody Kasper said authorities responded to a report of the graffiti about 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.
A switchblade knife was found stuck in a wooden fence post not far from the graffiti, though Kasper said it was unclear whether the two are connected.
The Department of Public Works “came and removed the chalk, but of course whenever we have that kind of writing, we’re immediately concerned about who wrote it and whatever intentions they may have,” Kasper added. “So, it’s certainly something we’re looking into.”
No persons of interest have been identified, according to police.
Michael Majchrowicz can be reached at mmajchrowicz@gazettenet.com or 413-585-5234.