Howard University: No suspicious activity seen after threat

The University was on alert after an online threat against African-American students was discovered Thursday.

The threat was included in a rambling post on the website 4chan, which allows users to post anonymously. Part of the message threatened harm to any African-American students who are located on the Howard campus "after 10," but the post did not specify morning or evening.

Hundreds of students gathered for a rally Thursday night following the online threat. A group of students also gathered Friday morning.

Here is the full statement from Howard University:

The online threat towards Howard University has not been followed by any additional threats or suspicious activity. The investigation is now being led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The Howard University Department of Public Safety is working closely with the FBI, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the Metro Transit Police Department as the investigation continues. We will provide updates, with additional information, as facts are confirmed. In the meantime, increased security will continue to be provided on campus and at area Metro locations.

We strongly denounce the sentiment expressed in the online threat because it speaks against the very freedoms that Howard University and our community stand for. I am encouraged by the response of the Howard community in its show of support and solidarity.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.