Police ‘Purge’ In Baton Rouge? Chilling Social Media Posts, Torching Of BRPD Patrol Car Raise Concerns About Unrest

There’s a chilling announcement circulating on social media, but it is still unclear whether or not it’s true. Apparently, it has been rumored that a purge may take place on July 9, 2016, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and surrounding areas. However, the Baton Rouge Police Department has yet to release any announcement warning local citizens of imminent danger.

According to Snopes, the chilling post remains unproven, but it definitely raises concerns following the horrific shooting that took place in Dallas, Texas, on July 7. By now, everyone with an internet connection has heard about the 11 officers who were shot following a protest in honor of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile.

Of those 12 police officers, five of them have died. Could a hate group be planning the same type of recourse in Baton Rouge? Although the series of events that have unfolded this week appear to be similar to a nightmare you’d see in a film, things may be worse if a real-life purge does take place.

Here are some of the social media posts about the rumor.

Long-time WAFB News anchor Donna Britt has assured local citizens that the purge is nothing more than a rumor. She took to Facebook with an official announcement about the situation. Colonel Michael Edmonson, the Louisiana State Police Superintendent, and Sheriff Sid Gautreaux have addressed the situation.

“Law enforcement officials take these types of threats very seriously,” said Colonel Michael Edmonson. “It is essential that the integrity and transparency of this investigation be maintained so that it may be properly concluded. But it just as important to ensure that public safety during the course of this inquiry be maintained and preserved.”

“When threats are made they can unnecessarily alarm the public and undermine the investigative process by diverting resources and attention away from the important task at hand. The State Police, with our law enforcement partners, will remain vigilant at monitoring threats, determining their sources and legitimacy and if necessary providing appropriately measured responses.”

Sheriff Gautreaux also assured citizens that law enforcement would notify the public immediately if it is determined that the threats are valid.

“Local, state and federal agencies are all working in close conjunction with one another and are in constant communication.” Sheriff Gautreaux said. “If information is received that is deemed to be credible, the public will be immediately notified.”

Nothing but unsubstantiated rumor holds that a "Purge" event is slated for Baton Rouge: https://t.co/c22eiRbsAr pic.twitter.com/SOFSa8B6kT

— snopes.com (@snopes) July 7, 2016

However, the disturbing events that have unfolded over the past 48 hours may suggest otherwise. In addition to the horrific shooting that took place in Dallas, Texas, a disturbing vandalism incident presumably directed toward the police also took place in Baton Rouge last night.

According to WAFB News, a BRPD patrol car was torched late last night. The details surrounding the torching have yet to be revealed, but there is speculation that the incident is a form of retaliation for the shooting of Alton Sterling that could lead to more public issues over time. Cpl. L’Jean McKneely with the Baton Rouge Police Department revealed the unit was parked and damaged at a body shop on Tom Drive.

Thankfully, the purge rumors have been refuted, but law enforcement officials are asking anyone with information or tips relating to any threats to send the information to the Louisiana Fusion Center at lafusion.center@la.gov.

[Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images]