GROSSE POINTE (WWJ) - Authorities say they've identified at least one suspect connected to an incident at a Panera Bread restaurant in downtown Grosse Pointe where a noose made from paper towels was discovered by workers last week.
"After several days of investigation, City of Grosse Pointe detectives have identified a juvenile suspect in the case," authorities said in a statement on Wednesday. "The investigation is ongoing; a warrant request will be sent to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for review when complete."
According to the release, employees at the restaurant in the 17000 block of Kercheval discovered the noose hanging in the men's bathroom last Friday around 8:30 p.m.
Police officers were dispatched to the scene where they initially said a group of teenage boys were suspects as they visited the business and were in the bathroom during the time the noose was made and strung up.
Public Safety Director John Alcorn said they haven't ruled out other possible suspects as Panera Bread was busy during the time of the incident.
According to the statement, police are still investigating into the case and no other details were provided.
The Mayor of Grosse Point, Sheila Tomkowiak, condemned the incident and said racial intimidation will not be tolerated.
"This is a hate crime that is unacceptable and will not be tolerated in our community," she said in a statement. "The noose, which is a symbol of human oppression and violence, has no place here. Any attempts at racial intimidation will be dealt with to the full extent of the law."