Duke investigating students involved in Battle of the Blues fire

An email sent to Duke students said the fire was in violation of local laws, university policy and was a safety risk.

"Duke has a well-established partnership with student leaders and local authorities to host bonfires when our basketball teams win their home game against our rivals or when they win a national championship," said the university in the email to students. "[Saturday] night’s events were not in accordance with that tradition and have put at risk our ability to secure approvals for future permits."

The university said students involved could face suspension or dismissal from the university as well as possible criminal charges.

"While we wholeheartedly endorse students engaging in our shared celebratory traditions, they must be done within the boundaries of local and state law as well as University policies," Duke said.