Crime Alerts

#2005-3

February 1, 2005

TWO ARMED ROBBERIES

Last night, City Police informed University Police that two Carnegie Mellon University students were robbed at gun point by the same suspect within less than 15 minutes of each other very close to campus.

At approximately 7:55 p.m. on Mon., Jan. 31st, a female student had just entered the rear door of Fairfax Annex apartments, 4630 Fifth Avenue, when she was grabbed from behind by a lone male. The suspect led her into the laundry room, where he demanded her wallet, pulled out a black handgun, and obtained her credit card. When the victim resisted his advances, the suspect fled. The victim was not harmed. At approximately 8:10 p.m., a male Carnegie Mellon University student was walking north on South Craig Street near Henry when he was robbed probably by the same lone armed suspect. The suspect led the victim at gunpoint to an ATM at Pitt's Craig Hall, where he was forced to withdraw cash. The suspect fled west on Henry Street toward North Dithridge. This victim also was not harmed.

These two robberies were among six armed robberies reported to City Police last night. Three others occurred in the downtown area and another on Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill. City Police believe that the same suspect committed both of last night's Oakland robberies, and also may be involved in some of the 10 armed street robberies downtown, in Oakland, East Liberty, and Shadyside since Jan. 21st. City Police describe the suspect as: a light complected black or possibly biracial male in his 20's, approximately 6 ft. tall, 160-190 lbs., medium build, wearing a ski mask covering his mouth and part of his nose under a dark hoodie, and dark pants. If you see this suspect or have any information about these cases, notify City Police by calling 9-1-1 or University Police immediately on (412) 268-2323 or x8-2323!

While University Police do not wish to alarm the community, it is apparent that this suspect is increasing the frequency and bold nature of his crimes. Therefore, until this suspect is arrested, University Police strongly urge everyone NOT TO WALK ALONE AFTER DARK ANYWHERE WITHIN A 3-4 BLOCK RADIUS OF THE MAIN CAMPUS!!

• Please ride the Shuttle & Escort System at night. Or use SafeWalk!
• Pay attention to your surroundings upon approaching the entrance to your residence, and just inside (stair wells, laundry rooms), especially in apartment buildings. Watch for strangers you encounter suddenly. Just keep on walking and don't look back. If anyone should call out to you or stop you to ask you a question, DON'T STOP - RUN! And yell, scream, make noise!
• If confronted by an armed assailant, don't resist. Do what he tells you and give him everything he asks for. Money can be replaced - you can't be!