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.

—————-

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

Police and security are patrolling the area.

—————–

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:

  1. 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.

————————-

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.
Read More

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

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)

Safety Strategies: Personal Safety

Engage in the practice of awareness, with the knowledge that “Safety and Security is a Shared Responsibility.”

Please remember to take your personal property with you at all times, lock your doors, and report suspicious behavior.

Safety Tips

  • Do not display your cellphone when walking about. Keep it in your bag or pocket.
  • Avoid using earphones when walking to ensure that you stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
  • Stay in well-lit areas. Walk mid-point between curbs and buildings, away from alleys, entries, and bushes. Stay near people.
  • Avoid short cuts through parks, vacant lots, and other low-occupancy places.
  • Carry only necessary credit cards and money. Avoid using outdoor ATMs (automated teller machines). Instead, look for banks that require entry into a lobby to use their ATM.
  • If you carry a purse or handbag, keep it close to your body. This will minimize the chances of theft. If your purse is taken, don’t fight. Turn it over and immediately call 911*.
  • Walk with someone whenever possible. Participate in buddy systems.
  • Do not stop to give directions or other information to strangers. Never hitchhike.
  • If you believe are being followed, call 911. Be alert & confident – making good eye contact may discourage the follower. Cross the street, change directions, or vary your pace. If someone follows you in a car, record the license number and call 911* immediately.
  • Have your key out and ready before you reach your car or door.
  • Trust your instincts and use common sense.

* Call PennComm at 215-573-3333 if you are within the Penn Patrol Zone. The Penn Patrol Zone extends from 30th Street to 43rd Street (east to west) and Market Street to Baltimore Avenue (north to south).