From: Virginia Tech Police Department

Update - April 25, 2023:

On March 20, 2023, a student reported that they were robbed at gunpoint in Peddrew-Yates Hall.  The Virginia Tech Police Department conducted a thorough investigation and determined that the case is unfounded - the reported incident did not occur.  We appreciate the community remaining vigilant and patient after the initial report.

As a reminder, the Virginia Tech Police Department takes all reports of crime seriously and encourages the community to continue to report all crimes promptly.  Safety is a community responsibility and, collectively, we are all able to create a safe community by working together.

Original notice - Posted March 21, 2023:

On Monday, March 20, 2023, the Virginia Tech Police Department received a report of an armed robbery. The incident occurred in Peddrew-Yates Hall (610 Washington St.) in the late afternoon hours of March 18, 2023. After being escorted into the building and to a resident’s room, the suspect displayed a handgun and stole money from the victim. The victim and suspect had recently met through a ride-share service.  The suspect was identified as an acquaintance of the ride share driver, but it does not appear that the suspect works for the service.

The suspect is described as a black male, 5'3" tall, weighing approximately 140 lbs, with neck tattoos. The suspect was last seen wearing blue jeans, a red hoodie, and a black jacket.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Virginia Tech Police Department immediately by calling 540-382-4343.  Anonymous tips can be reported online at police.vt.edu/anonymous.

  • Be cautious when inviting someone into your living space or accepting an invitation to theirs.

  • Trust your gut. If you feel uneasy or sense something is wrong, do not be afraid to be assertive or hurt someone's feelings. Do what you can to get yourself and those who may be with you out of that situation, or call for assistance. Make a scene if necessary.

  • Be observant and look for something distinctive about the suspect but try not to make it seem like you are staring.

  • Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

  • Report all suspicious people and circumstances immediately.

  • Be cautious in confronting suspicious persons. Call Virginia Tech Police Department.

Virginia Tech Police offers a free self-defense course for students and employees several times a year. The four-part course begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, and progresses to the basics of hands-on defense training. Participants can engage however they are most comfortable. Click the following link for more information: police.vt.edu/programs-training.html

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