Police in Hillside are investigating a racial epithet that was spray-painted on the street outside a family’s home this past weekend.

The Hardy family has been living on Hillside’s Nottingham Way for about five years. They say they have never witnessed a hate crime like this steps from their property.

The lettering is faint now after crews came out Tuesday to drill out the remaining residue that was left behind.

Homeowner Raysa Hardy has some words for whoever is responsible.

"I will say that it's unfortunate that you have the issue because obviously, I don't have the issue,” said Hardy. “You need to look within your inner self and resolve the issue that you have with yourself. You're a coward."

The hate crime is still under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call Union County Crime Stoppers at 908-654-8477 or Hillside Police at 973-926-5800.