CHOCTAW, Miss. — The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians is asking for the public’s help to identify whoever damaged fencing at the Nanih Waiya Cave site early Friday morning, Oct. 30, 2026.
Investigators believe the vehicle involved was an SUV or hatchback-style vehicle.
Nanih Waiya is an area of deep historical and cultural importance, serving as part of the original Choctaw settlement and linked to the Mother Mound, recognized as the birthplace of the Choctaw people.
“Any act of vandalism or destruction at either the Nanih Waiya Cave site or the ceremonial mound is more than damage to property. It is an act of disrespect toward the history, culture, traditions, and heritage of the Choctaw People,” tribal officials said in a statement. “We ask everyone to help us respect, protect, and preserve these sacred grounds. Please keep these areas clean, refrain from damaging the property, and help ensure these important cultural sites remain protected for future generations.”
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Choctaw Police Department at 601-656-5711, submit an anonymous tip by calling 844-601-1308, or report online at https://mobile.catapultems.com/mississippi-bc/mjjc/Report/English/List.
