On Sunday, April 4, VUPD received a report from a VU student who stated that she was a victim of an attempted kidnapping. The student reported that on Saturday, April 3, between 9 and 9:20 p.m., after departing a business near 21st Avenue South and Grand Avenue while walking eastbound on Grand Avenue, a male appeared from the parking lot between 19th Avenue South and 18th Avenue South yelling, “Come here, I want to talk to you!” The student ignored the male and continued traveling east.
The male then ran towards her and lifted her off the ground. The student began screaming and fighting to resist and was able to break free and run from the area.
The suspect was described as approximately 20-30 years old, 6’1”-6’4” in height, with a thin build, wearing a long-sleeve flannel shirt and dark jeans.
VUPD is currently investigating this incident.
This security notice is being issued to remind the Vanderbilt community:
- Avoid isolated or dark areas.
- If a stranger does approach, maintain a distance and be observant; if they are in a vehicle, get the license plate number.
- Never get in a car with a stranger.
- Stay alert. If you feel uneasy, leave the area. Go to a safe location and notify VUPD.
- Report any suspicious persons to VUPD. Be prepared to describe the person as best as you can.
Resources and assistance for students, faculty and staff
- The Vanderbilt University Police Department is available to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you need emergency assistance, call (615) 421-1911, or for non-emergency assistance, call (615) 322-2745.
- The Project Safe Center offers a support line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (615) 322-SAFE (7233).
- The Title IX Office can be reached at (615) 343-9004.
- The University Counseling Center can be reached at (615) 322-2571.