Howard University student slams campus security after armed robbery near dorm

The Brief

• A group of Howard University students were allegedly robbed at gunpoint near the College Hall North dormitory last week.

• Nine masked suspects, one armed with an AR-15, allegedly stole items including an iPhone and jackets, and one suspect struck a student with a gun.

• The victim says she feels unsafe on campus and criticized the university’s lack of proper security measures.

• Howard University has issued a safety alert with tips for students.

A Howard University student is sharing her frightening experience after an alleged armed robbery on campus left her and others shaken and fearful for their safety.

Crime reported near Howard University dorm

The backstory

According to police, the incident occurred last Thursday night around 10:30 p.m. outside the College Hall North dormitory on the 2200 block of 4th Street NW.

The student and three of her Howard classmates were talking near the dorm when nine masked suspects suddenly approached them, one armed with an AR-15 rifle.

The suspects cornered the students, robbing them of several items, including an iPhone, a black Moose Knuckle jacket, and a Tommy Hilfiger jacket. One suspect struck one of the students in the face with a gun before the group fled the scene.

The victims were left shaken.

What they’re saying

One student, speaking exclusively to FOX 5, expressed her frustration and fear about the lack of security on campus.

“I felt unsafe in front of a place that’s supposed to be my home,” she said.

When asked if she believed the university provided adequate security, the student responded bluntly: “No.”

In response to the robbery, Howard University issued an alert to students, which included safety tips such as avoiding dark areas, carrying cell phones to call for help, and taking note of a suspect’s appearance if approached.

While the student acknowledged the value of such tips, she questioned what measures were being taken to enhance campus security.

In a message sent to FOX 5, a spokesperson for Howard University said this incident is currently being investigated by Howard’s Department of Public Safety and D.C. Police.

“The safety and security of our campus community is a top priority, and the University has increased its officer presence across the campus and near the incident site. MPD has also stepped-up vehicle patrols on the public streets surrounding Howard,” the statement reads. “The University is also heavily promoting pre-existing safety resources, including a campus police escort program for students, emergency alert mobile app, and free handheld safety communication devices. The University Office of Student Affairs has also met with the students and families to provide resources and support for their well-being. We will continue to provide updates on the investigation as information becomes available.”

The Source

The information in this story comes from FOX 5 DC reporting and Howard University.