On Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, at approximately 9:45 p.m., Metro Nashville Police Department received a report of a robbery on 20th Avenue South near Terrace Place.
The victim reported that she was standing by her vehicle when the suspect walked up to her and said, “Give me your pocketbook or I will shoot you.” The victim replied back to the suspect, “Are you serious?” The suspect then chambered a round into his gun and pointed it at the victim. The victim gave the suspect her purse, and the suspect then walked down Terrace Place toward 21st Avenue South.
Description: The suspect was described as an “older” black male around 6’1″ tall with a thin build. He was wearing a navy toboggan, black jacket and had a “fuzzy” beard. He was armed with a semi-automatic type handgun.
If you have information relating to this or a similar incident, please call the Vanderbilt University Police Department at (615) 322-2745. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Nashville Crime Stoppers at (615) 742-7463.
Risk Reduction Tips
- Scan the area before you exit or approach your vehicle/building and while you proceed between sites.
- Have your key ready in hand to quickly access the door of your vehicle/building.
- Avoid Isolated or dark areas.
- Travel with confidence and purpose.
- If strangers approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
- Stay alert and trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy, leave. Go to a safe location and notify VUPD.
- Lock doors and windows of your room/building. Don’t prop open doors, thwart security measures, or let strangers in.
- Avoid going to ATMs alone, after dark, or if suspicious persons are nearby.
- Know the location of emergency phones
- Stay alert, and plan ahead for “What if?” situations.
On-Campus Resources
- Psychological & Counseling Center, (615) 322-2571
- Employee Assistance Program, (615) 936-1327
- Student Health Services, (615) 322-2427
- Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center, (615) 322-4843
- Project Safe, (615) 322-1333
Report suspicious persons, vehicles or activities immediately. On campus, dial 911, or use a blue light phone. From a cell phone, call (615) 421-1911.
*In compliance with the U.S. Department of Higher Education and the Jeanne Clery Act , Security Notices are issued to provide timely warning information concerning a potentially dangerous situation on or near Vanderbilt University. This information is provided to empower our students and employees with the information necessary to make decisions or take appropriate actions concerning their own personal safety.
Contact: Vanderbilt University Police Department, (615) 322-2745