Temple University students on edge after 3 armed robberies near campus in 24 hours
Temple University students are expressing fear and frustration after three armed robberies occurred near campus within a 24hour period, according to police.
Temple University police said they are working to identify two male suspects captured on video who they believe committed two of the robberies, including one involving a student.
"It's obviously so heartbreaking to hear, especially for the students and their families," junior Jazmyne Jackson said.
Police said the latest robbery happened just before 1:30 a.m. Thursday on the 1500 block of Oxford Street, where two suspects approached a student walking off campus, displayed a gun and stole the student's phone.
No injuries were reported, but police said one shot was fired into the air as the suspects fled.
Investigators said minutes earlier, the same two males were on the 1300 block of Carlisle Street, where they stole another person's phone. That victim is not affiliated with the university.
Students said the repeated incidents have left them unsettled.
"It's definitely scary. It's honestly not out of the normal which is almost a little sad that students are aware that this is a reality," senior Jasper Brady said.
Police said a similar robbery occurred around 6:15 a.m. Wednesday on the 1800 block of West Montgomery Avenue. In that case, a male suspect pulled out a gun and stole a student's phone.
Some students said the recent crimes have made them more cautious.
"I feel safe off of my own experiences so far, but off of what I hear within recent days, it makes me a little afraid," sophomore Aly Kelawi said.
Another student, sophomore Noah Kubi, said, "That makes me fear to be a student here."
Students said they plan to adjust their routines.
"Definitely not going to go outside as late as I used to," Kelawi said. "As students, we need to be very, very careful about our surroundings."
University officials encouraged students to use safety resources, including the walking escort program, shuttle service and counseling services such as the Essential Needs Hub.
"There's definitely support out there. You're not alone," Brady said. "There's plenty of services and there's plenty of people who want to see you succeed."
Temple and Philadelphia police have increased patrols in the area and are working to determine whether all three robberies are connected.
The investigation is ongoing between the Philadelphia Police Department and Temple University Department of Public Safety.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the PPD tip line at 215686TIPS (8477), Central Detectives at 2156863093, Temple's Investigations Unit at 2152046200 or Temple Police at 2152041234.
