Police are investigating a possible hate crime in Queens: A noose was found hanging from a tree outside an apartment building—and right by an elementary school—in Howard Beach on Wednesday. Residents were shaken and disgusted; one told NY1, "That's disgusting. I see it. It's a lynchman, a hangman's noose. I would never think that would happen in this neighborhood."
According to WCBS 2, "Police quickly took it down Wednesday morning after surrounding the tree. There are surveillance cameras on a nearby apartment building, but the problem is...they weren’t working over the last few days so they are no help for police in their investigation." As for the Walter Ward Elementary School, the principal told NY1 that students weren't outside because of the bad weather, so it seemed unlikely any kids saw it.
State Senator Shirley Huntley said, "We know all too well that symbols of hatred fuel an atmosphere of intolerance and anger that can endanger lives. That is why it is disturbing to hear that a noose was hung from a tree near a public school in Lindenwood. I am outraged by this evil display. It is a painful reminder of the darkest chapters in our nation's history and proof that we must remain vigilant."
The neighborhood has a history of racially charged incidents, but one resident said, "In spite of what everyone thinks about Howard Beach, it’s not so. We get along with everybody over here."
