On Thursday, Oct. 20, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department received a report of an attempted robbery in the 2100 block of Fairfax Avenue, near Convent Place (south of campus near Hillsboro Village). The victim stated he was walking through his apartment parking lot when a male with a blue bandana over his face approached him. The male had a gun in his hand and demanded the victim’s wallet and money. When the victim refused, the suspect ran from the area.
Description: The suspect was described as a male white between 25-35 years old with very short dark hair. He is about 6’1″ tall and of average build. At the time of the attempted robbery, he had a blue bandana over his face and was wearing a dark colored coat, blue jeans and light colored tennis shoes.
If you have information relating to this or a similar incident, call the Vanderbilt University Police Department at (615) 322-2745. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Nashville Crime Stoppers at 74-CRIME (615-742-7463).
Risk Reduction Tips
- Scan the area before you exit or approach your vehicle or building and while you proceed between sites.
- Have your key ready in hand to quickly access the door of your vehicle or 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…?” scenarios.
Remember these on-campus resources:
Psychological & Counseling Center, 322-2571
Employee Assistance Program, 936-1327
Student Health Services, 322-2427
Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center, 322-4843
VUPD Victim’s Advocate, 574-4735
Crisis Intervention and Support Groups, 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.
Contact: Vanderbilt University Police Department, (615) 322-2745