Investigations are underway after a so-called prank at a North Carolina highschool greeted students and staff with a black teddy bear hanging on a noose with a liquor bottle in hand.

Wakefield High School was the scene of the noose that was left for students and staff to see on Tuesday morning.

There was also a sign saying “Make Wakefield TRIPP again #smartlunch.”, referencing bringing back the previous principle (who departed in ’15) and bringing back an old lunch policy.

The noose was removed but not before it could be snapped and shared on social media.

Principal Malik Bazzell is black and as the “prank” was likely aimed at this it brings up questions of intention.

Bazzell said:

“Let me be clear: This was an offensive act that has no place in our school,”

“The imagery is deeply offensive and everyone in our school community should be appalled.”

The stadium and baseball field has also apparently been vandalized and criminal charges are being pursued.