The University of Mississippi has opened an official investigation after viral doorbell footage appeared to show students making racist noises outside an apartment where three black students were allegedly targeted.
The video, captured on a Ring doorbell camera, was shared to TikTok by Ole Miss student Jakiyra Metcalf, who said the women shown in the clip are her upstairs neighbours. The time-stamped footage from Friday evening appears to show two women approaching the front door, with one beating her chest and mimicking monkey noises while another makes similar sounds toward the lens. A third woman is seen walking past while looking towards the entrance.
Viral Backlash and Calls for Action
Metcalf posted the recording online the following day with the caption: "What do we have to say about this?" The clip quickly racked up over 11 million views, triggering widespread online backlash and prompting thousands to demand disciplinary action, according to the New York Post.
A woman identifying herself as the mother of one of the targeted students shared the clip to Facebook, confirming that university officials had been notified. Condemning the incident as "disgusting and unacceptable," she wrote: "We want answers. College is supposed to be a place where young adults can learn, grow, and feel safe." She added: "And let me be clear: If you watch this video and genuinely don't see anything wrong with this type of behaviour, please delete me. We clearly don’t share the same values."
University Response and Investigation
While online sleuths have attempted to identify the individuals in the footage, their identities have not been officially confirmed. A university spokesperson said administrators are actively investigating the situation, condemning the "offensive, hurtful, and unacceptable behaviours" shown in the recording.
"The university has reached out to those targeted by the actions to share information, resources and support," the spokesperson said. "We are committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors and will follow our processes to ensure the well-being and safety of our community."
