MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) -
Police at the University of Minnesota are investigating three attacks and robberies of students on or near campus in the past week.
On Thursday, Sept. 6 two University of Minnesota students were attacked and robbed near the intersection of 14th Ave. SE and 6th Street SE in the Dinkytown area.
The victims were walking north on 14th Ave. around 12:45 a.m. when two men approached them, said something, then punched the victims in the face and head. The suspects took a purse and were seen getting into a dark blue or black SUV or four-door sedan that was parked on 6th Street.
Both victims suffered minor injuries, but did not require medical attention.
Minneapolis Police are investigating this most recent off-campus robbery. Anyone with information is asked to call the Minneapolis Police Tip Line at 612-692-8477 and reference case MP-12-282201.
On Sunday, Sept. 2 at approximately 1:45 a.m., a University of Minnesota student was attacked from behind while walking somewhere between Territorial Hall and the intersection of 17th Avenue and Third Street in the Marcy Holmes neighborhood, just east of Dinkytown. The victim was unable to give police a more specific location.
The victim was walking home when the suspect came up from behind and struck him in the face, knocking him to the ground. The suspect kicked the victim and demanded his valuables. The victim gave up his iPhone and some cash. The victim suffered a bloody nose, but was not seriously injured.
Each of the robberies has taken place after midnight, and the victims have been walking alone or in pairs. Students walking late at night are strongly encouraged to walk in well-lit areas and in large groups. Students can also call the Campus Escort Service (612-624-WALK) for a free security escort or the Gopher Chauffeur (612-388-6911) for free transportation to and from area destinations.
University of Minnesota Police and Minneapolis Police are working together on these investigations and have also increased their visibility and presence on and around campus to put a stop to these offenses. If you see suspicious behavior, or feel you are in danger, call 9-1-1.
