Suspicious Rope Found Outside APEX Museum Raises Concerns

Atlanta, September 17, 2025

News Summary

A suspicious rope resembling a noose was discovered hanging from a tree outside the APEX Museum in Atlanta, prompting an investigation by the police and Homeland Security. The incident has ignited fears of racial intimidation in the community, particularly among students at nearby Georgia State University. Although the rope was removed and deemed not an actual noose, local leaders stress the significance of the symbolic act, especially amid a recent spate of bomb threats targeting Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the region.

Atlanta – A suspicious rope was discovered hanging in a tree outside the APEX Museum for Black history on Wednesday afternoon, prompting a police investigation. Officers responded to the scene at 135 Auburn Avenue NE around 2:40 p.m. The Atlanta Police Department activated the Homeland Security Unit to assist with the inquiry, described as a precautionary measure. Currently, police report that there is “nothing significant to report” regarding the findings.

The presence of the rope, which was tied in the shape of a noose, has raised significant concerns among local community leaders. Gerald Griggs, the President of the Georgia NAACP, expressed deep apprehension about the symbolism associated with such an image and its implications as a potential sign of racial terror. Griggs emphasized the necessity for vigilance, especially given the rope’s location near a historically significant museum and a college campus.

Community members, including students from Georgia State University (GSU), have voiced their worries about the message this incident could convey to a predominantly minority educational environment. The discovery of the rope adds to existing fears in the region, stemming from a recent wave of bomb threats targeting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Georgia and across the southeastern United States.

In light of the situation, it remains crucial for law enforcement to take the matter seriously. Griggs has reiterated the commitment of advocacy organizations to ensuring safety in the community and has called for thorough investigations into incidents that could incite fear or intimidation.

Following the investigation, the CEO of the APEX Museum, Dan Moore Jr., addressed the incident publicly. While he characterized the placement of the rope as an act of intimidation, he affirmed that it was ultimately deemed not to be an actual noose. The rope has since been removed from the museum’s property, but the investigation remains ongoing as updates from the police are anticipated.

Key Information

• Incident Location: APEX Museum, 135 Auburn Avenue NE, Atlanta
• Time of Discovery: 2:40 p.m. on Wednesday
• Agency Involved: Atlanta Police Department, Homeland Security Unit
• Symbolism Concern: Potential sign of racial terror as per community leaders
• Related Context: Recent bomb threats against HBCUs in the region
• Rope Status: Removed from property; deemed not a noose
• Investigation Status: Ongoing

Background Context

The APEX Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of African Americans, is located in Atlanta and serves as a significant landmark in the African American community. The incident aligns with broader concerns regarding safety and racial intimidation in a society that has seen increased instances of racially charged events. The recent threats to HBCUs further amplify these fears, necessitating vigilant community action and response from law enforcement.

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Additional Resources

• WALB News
• Wikipedia: Racial Intimidation
• WSB TV
• Google Search: Suspicious Rope APEX Museum
• 11Alive News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Racial Discrimination
• Instagram Post 1
• Google News: Racial Terror Georgia
• Instagram Post 2
• Instagram Post 3
• Instagram Post 4

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.