MORGANTOWN — West Virginia University students and employees are encouraged to be vigilant as University Police received a report of a robbery/car-jacking that happened at about 3:30 p.m. May 9 in front of 265 Prospect St. At that time, one suspect approached the driver of a silver Nissan Sentra with a Pennsylvania license plate, pushed the driver away from the vehicle and fled with the vehicle toward High Street. No weapons were used, and no injuries were reported.
University Police has increased patrols and presence in these areas and is also coordinating with other law enforcement agencies in response to the incident.
The suspect’s description has been reported as: A white male, about 25, with dark hair, a beard and a hat.
No arrests have been made. Officers are actively reviewing information as they work to locate the suspect. If you have any information about this incident, call 304-293-COPS (2677) or visit the department at 992 Elmer Prince Drive. Information may be shared anonymously.
The following safety tips are designed to help avoid potential crime.
- Anyone who believes they are in danger should immediately call 911.
- If you witness a potentially dangerous situation or a crime, call 911 or WVUPD.
- Download WVU’s LiveSafe app.
- If you encounter an emergency situation on campus, utilize the blue light emergency call system if available.
- Inspect locks on your doors, windows, and other applicable areas to ensure they are working effectively.
- Make sure to lock windows, doors, and vehicles while you are away or not actively monitoring them.
- Do not leave spare keys in places accessible to others.
- If you lose your key or ID, report it immediately so locks can be changed and ID access suspended until a new ID has been issued.
- Be cautious in confronting suspicious persons. If you are confronted, cooperate. Give the criminal what he/she asks for — wallet, keys, jewelry, credit cards, etc. Your life is more valuable than replaceable possessions. Don’t make sudden moves or try to apprehend the criminal yourself. Concentrate on remembering a description, and call police immediately.
- If possible, don’t walk alone during late-night hours. Walk in groups whenever you can — there is safety in numbers. If you feel you are being followed, cross the street, yell, run and find a well-lit area.
- Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible. Avoid alleys, vacant lots, wooded areas, and other shortcuts or secluded areas. They are usually not well-lit or heavily traveled.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
- Mark and record serial numbers of electronics and other valuables.
- If harassed or assaulted, scream and attempt to run for safety.
- Know your neighborhood. Identify police and fire stations, libraries, emergency telephones — as well as the hours of operation of local stores and restaurants.
West Virginia University Resources:
- WVU Police Department – 911 | 304-293-2677 | 304-293-3136
- WVU Carruth Center – 304-293-4431
- WVU Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion – 304-293-5600
- WVU Office of Student Conduct – 304-293-8111
- WVU Faculty-Staff Assistance Program – 304-293-5590
- WVU Rape and Domestic Violence Information Center – 304-292-5100
- WVU Office of Campus and Community Life – 304-293-5611
- WVU Student Health Service – 304-285-7200
- WVU Division of Student Life – 304-293-5811
- WVU Faculty-Staff Assistance Program – 304-293-5590
Health, safety, preparedness and training resources are posted at safety.wvu.edu and also available at police.wvu.edu.
Students and employees are encouraged to follow the WVU Safety and Wellness Facebook page and @WVUsafety on Twitter.
