MSU Police and Public Safety

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Crime Alerts

4/21/2008

Michigan State University Police Department is investigating a report of an attempted armed carjacking that occurred. Below is a brief description of the incident. Any witnesses are asked to contact MSU Police at (517) 355-2222.

Attempted car jacking

MSU Police are investigating a report of an attempted armed carjacking in the parking lot of the University Club, 3435 Forest Road, Lansing at 6:35 p.m. April 21.

A 52-year-old woman told police that as she sat in her vehicle with the windows down, an unknown man approached her and asked for the time. He then walked away, but returned a short time later, entering the unlocked vehicle from the passenger’s side front seat, threatening her with a gun and demanding that she drive them away.

The victim fled through the driver’s side door of the vehicle. She said that when she turned around she noticed the man exiting the car and running across Forest Road. The woman was not physically harmed.

A witness heard the woman screaming as she ran from her car and chased the suspect while calling police. The witness followed the suspect to the Jolly Road Exit on US 127 before he jumped a fence and got away.

The suspect is described as a white man, age 20-23, approximately
5-feet-10, 150 pounds, with short blond hair. He was last seen wearing
a white long-sleeve, button-down dress shirt and khaki-colored shorts.

Car Jacking Safety Tips from the MSU Police:

Follow these tips to help reduce your chances of being car jacked. Walk with purpose, and stay alert.
• Approach your car with the key in hand. Look around and inside the car before entering.
• Park in well-lighted areas, near sidewalks or walkways. Avoid parking near dumpsters, woods, large vans or trucks, or anything else that limits your visibility.
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even when the car is locked. Keep them in the trunk.
• Keep doors locked and windows rolled up, no matter how short the distance or how safe the area.
• Look around, especially at places where you slow down or stop, such as garages and parking lots, intersections, self-service gas stations, and car washes, highway entry and exit ramps, and ATMs.
• When coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get away.
• Avoid driving alone, if possible. Travel with someone, especially at night.
• Don't stop to assist a stranger whose car has broken down. Help instead by calling the police.
• Always keep your car well maintained and the gas tank full.
If it happens to you
• If a car jacker threatens you with a gun or other weapon, give up your car. Don't argue. Your life is worth more than a car.
• Get away as quickly as possible.
• Contact the police immediately.
1. Call 911 if you are in danger.
2. Park in well-lit areas if possible.
3. Be aware of your surroundings and others in the area.
4. Realize that listening to headphones or iPods, talking on your cell or reading while driving decreases your awareness of your surroundings.
5. Always lock your doors. Walk with others when possible.

For information on IM self defense classes on campus, call (517) 432-2661.

News and Information

Crime Alerts

4/21/2008

Attempted car jacking

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2006 Annual Report