UPennAlert

Retail Robbery without Weapon

Penn and Philadelphia Police responded to a report of a retail robbery in the 3700 block of Walnut Street. Upon arrival, the complainants stated suspects entered the store, demanded merchandise, and left the store carrying a black duffle bag. No weapon was used and no injuries were reported.

The suspects were described as a Black male, light complexion, beard, hair in locs, thin build, 6′ tall, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and blue medical mask; a Black male, thin build, hair in locs, 6′ tall, wearing gray pants, and blue medical mask, carrying a black duffle bag, and a Black male, medium complexion, thin build, 6′ tall, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black pants with yellow details, and blue medical mask. The suspects were last seen in the area of 3700 Walnut Street.

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UPDATE: All clear in the area of 3700 Walnut Street. You may resume usual activity.

Police and security are patrolling the area.

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UPennAlert: Retail Robbery without weapon in the 3700 block of Walnut Street. Increased police activity in the area. Police on scene, use caution, avoid the immediate area.

The three suspects are described as:

Black male, light complexion, beard, hair in locs, thin build, 6′ tall, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and blue medical mask.

2. Black male, thin build, hair in locs, 6′ tall, wearing gray pants, and blue medical mask, carrying a black duffle bag.

3. Black male, medium complexion, thin build, 6′ tall, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black pants with yellow details, and blue medical mask.

The suspects were last seen in the area of 3700 Walnut Street.

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The Division of Public Safety has developed a few helpful risk reduction strategies outlined below. Know that it is never the fault of the person impacted (victim/survivor) by crime.

Stay out of immediate area.
Stay alert and reduce distractions; using cellphones, ear buds, etc. may limit your awareness.
Orient yourself to your surroundings. (Identify your location, nearby exits, etc.)
Utilize 24/7/365 Walking Escort services (215-898-WALK/9255).
Only carry necessary documents.
Keep your valuables out of sight.
Be respectful of those involved in the incident.
If you believe you see the described suspect, do not engage – call 215-573-3333.

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The Division of Public Safety will continue to ensure the highest level of safety and security for our community.

See something concerning? Connect with Penn Public Safety 24/7 at 215-573-3333.
Worried about a friend or colleague’s mental or physical health? Get 24/7 connection to appropriate resources at 215-898-HELP (4357).
Seeking support after experiencing a crime? Call Special Services – Support and Advocacy resources at 215-898-4481 or email an advocate at
Use the Walking Escort and Riding services available to you free of charge.
Take a moment to update your cellphone information for the UPennAlert Emergency Notification System
Download the Penn Guardian App which can help Police better find your location when you call in an emergency.
Access free self-empowerment and defense courses through Penn DPS.

Emergencies 215-573-3333 / 511 (campus phone)

General Information 215-898-7297

Special Services 215-898-4481 (215-898-6600 off-hours)

HELP Line 215-898-HELP (4357)

DPS Headquarters 4040 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104

Update UPennAlert Info PennGuardian Registration

Walking Escort 215-898-WALK (9255)

Penn Transit Ride 215-898-RIDE (7433)

01/20/2022

Safety Strategies – How to Respond to a Carjacking Encounter

We wish to share the following information for safely responding to a carjacking encounter. DPS is working in partnership with the Philadelphia Police Department to educate and protect the community about the increase in these events.

Always remember – your vehicle can be replaced. You are irreplaceable!

Situations to be mindful about:

Getting in & out of a vehicle.
When parking your vehicle.
Gas stations.
Cars double parked or left running in the street.
Parking locations with poor lighting.
Faked car accidents.

Safety Tips:

Be aware of your surroundings, including people and conditions in your area.
Start your car and drive away immediately.
Park in well-lit areas.
Keep your windows rolled up and doors locked.
Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, leave the area and call police.
Keep your cell phone in your pocket to call police easily.
Don’t stop for stranded motorists. Note their location and call 911 or 215-573-3333 in the Penn Patrol Zone to provide them with assistance.

If you are a victim of a carjacking:

Give up your car & leave the scene.
Avoid verbal and physical confrontations.
Make a mental note of suspect’s description.
Call Penn Police (215-573-3333) or 911 when it is safe to do so.

Your vehicle can be replaced. You are irreplaceable!

Poster listing guidance on how to prevent and respond to a carjacking incident. Full text of this poster is listed in plain text on the webpage.

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