The FBI is investigating racist text messages sent this week to Black college students nationwide, including students from at least four South Carolina schools. The federal law enforcement agency issued a statement Thursday saying it “is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter.

Racist text messages invoking slavery raised alarm across the country this week after they were sent to Black men, women and students, including middle schoolers, prompting inquiries by the FBI and other agencies.

IU students get racist text messages referencing slavery and plantation assignments