The following incident was reported to University Police. Readers with information that could assist in investigating this incident are urged to call 935-5555. This information is provided as a public service to promote safety awareness and is available on the University Police Web site at police.wustl.edu.
On Aug. 29, University Police issued the following alert:
A person reported she was walking toward Skinker Boulevard on the sidewalk in the 6100 block of Waterman Avenue about 11 p.m. Aug. 28 and observed two people seated on some steps.
She reported the subjects started to follow her and then one grabbed her bag. She initially resisted — however, one of the subjects struck her in the face with his hand. She fell to the ground and the subjects took her bag and cell phone. The subjects ran west toward Skinker. The woman was not seriously injured.
Precautions:
• Avoid walking or jogging alone and never walk or jog alone after dark;
• Carry a whistle to summon help;
• Be alert to your surroundings. If you suspect you are being followed, run in a different direction; go to the other side of the street and yell or whistle for help; or head quickly to a lighted area, a group of people or business;
• If you are confronted by a thief, give them what they want and don’t chase them as they leave. Report suspicious persons or activity immediately to the police;
• Be extra cautious if someone approaches your car and asks for information.