Noose Found Outside Independence High School In Ashburn: Police

ASHBURN, VA — Independence High School administrators found a noose displayed at the school's entrance on Monday. The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.

Independence High School principal John Gabriel sent a letter to community members about the noose. Authorities do not believe that students or employees were responsible for the noose. Monday was a teacher workday, so very few students were in the school.

"I want all families to be assured that our school counselors and Unified Mental Health Team will be available to support anyone who has been impacted," Gabriel said in the letter to community members. "Because this is an active law enforcement investigation, I cannot provide any further details."

In an update posted to Facebook, the sheriff's office said the noose was attached to a school banner outside the stadium.

"We reject and condemn the use of these intimidating, racist symbols and hateful demonstrations of any kind," Gabriel wrote. "Please know they do not reflect our values at Independence High School."

Anyone with more information about the incident can call the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office at 703-777-1021.

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