Former FBI Director James Comey is under investigation by the U.S. Secret Service after posting a photo on Instagram that many Republicans claim implied a threat toward President Donald Trump. The now-deleted image showed seashells arranged to spell “8647,” which sparked immediate backlash.
Comey captioned the image: “Cool shell formation on my beach walk.” However, the number “86” is often used as slang for “to get rid of” or “to kill,” and Trump is the 47th president. Critics, including members of Trump’s inner circle, interpreted the post as a coded assassination reference.
Comey quickly removed the post and followed up with a statement. He claimed ignorance about the interpretation of the numbers and apologized to those who took offense. “It never occurred to me,” he said, adding, “I oppose violence of any kind.”
However, Trump strongly rejected Comey’s explanation. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said, “That meant assassination, and it says it loud and clear.” He added that even a child would understand the implication.
Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that an investigation is underway. “We vigorously investigate anything that can be taken as a potential threat against our protectees,” he said on X. He emphasized that the agency takes such rhetoric seriously but declined to discuss details.
The FBI is supporting the probe. Current Director Kash Patel confirmed the bureau is coordinating with the Secret Service and Department of Homeland Security. He stated that while the Secret Service has primary jurisdiction, the FBI will provide “all necessary support.”
The incident has triggered a political storm. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem accused Comey of calling for Trump’s assassination. She stated her department is also looking into the matter.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino went further, accusing Comey of making “a plea to bad actors/terrorists to assassinate the POTUS,” referring to Trump’s current Middle East visit.
Donald Trump Jr. also weighed in, posting on X: “James Comey causally [sic] calling for my dad to be murdered.”
Comey served as FBI Director from 2013 to 2017. He led the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails during the 2016 election and was later fired by Trump amid the Russia election interference probe. His tenure remains deeply controversial across the political spectrum.
As the James Comey investigated over seashell photo saga unfolds, the post has reignited debate over political expression, intent, and security.
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