ELKHART, Ind. — The FBI is investigating a cross burning outside the home of an interracial couple in Elkhart.

Elkhart police say the 5 1/2 by 3 1/2 foot wooden cross was left burning against a tree about 15 feet from the couple’s front door about 2:30 a.m. Friday.

Police Lt. Ed Windbigler says investigators believe the cross burning is an isolated incident in the city about 15 miles east of South Bend. Police are following up on several leads.

The Southern Poverty Law Center says the cross-burning appears to be an act of intimidation against interracial couples.

Windbigler says the FBI will determine if federal charges apply in the incident.