Heights students stay on guard after knifepoint robberies

A pair of home-invasion-style robberies in the University Heights has left students on edge and police on guard as the search for the suspect continues.

An unknown assailant robbed students living in two apartments at knifepoint in the past week, according to Buffalo Police. One apartment was on LeBrun near Bailey Avenue and the second at Main Street and Capen Boulevard.

The perpetrator entered the apartments while the students were home on Aug. 23 and 31 and stole credit cards, cellular phones, a computer, wallets and personal papers. Both crimes occurred during mid-morning hours.

The incidents have students concerned for their safety both in their homes as well as on the streets of the Heights.

"It makes me want to keep my guard up and protect my home and makes me want to be more cautious about my surroundings," said Olugbenga Olubummo, a junior physical therapy major who lives in the area. "I always lock my door. I've always been minding my p's and q's but now that I hear about these robberies I'm going to be more cautious."

Joseph Goodfellow, sophomore accounting major, said that the nature of the crimes was particularly frightening.

"It's kind of shocking that he comes into the house when they're home, I don't know what I'd do in that situation," Goodfellow said. "A lot of times you walk around the Heights and end up by yourself, and you see a lot of suspicious people. I guess any one of them could come up and mug you."

Adrienne Markey, a sophomore business major, said she was previously unaware of crime in the Heights.

"I'm na??ve to this stuff, which is even scarier," Markey said. "If someone came at me with a knife, though, I wouldn't know what to do."

While the incidents are a source for concern, students should remember that robberies are not a common occurrence, according to John Grela, UB director of public safety.

"These types of incidents are dangerous in themselves, but robberies aren't as common as you might think," Grela said. "These types of incidents are just a part of the problems we have in the University Heights area. Whether it's a gunpoint robbery or this type of theft, though, these are things you should be aware of."

Buffalo City Police are currently investigating the thefts and have asked UB to advise students to be on the lookout because of the incidents' close proximity to the campus, according to Tracy Eastman of the office of the vice president for Student Affairs.

"It's just very important that students are aware of their surroundings and are aware of the possibility of these crimes being repeated," Eastman said. "They should also be on the lookout for anyone matching the suspect's description."

The perpetrator is described as a black male, approximately 30 years old, 6'2", 200 lbs., wearing dark clothing and leaving with property in a black duffel bag.

Until the suspect is apprehended, Grela said there are steps students can take to protect themselves and their homes.

"Students should keep their doors locked and their lights on at all times," Grela said. "The simple act of leaving a light on can deter any thief. Also, if students see any suspicious activity, they should immediately report it to authorities."

Additionally, should a student become the victim of a robbery like these, the student shouldn't resist, Grela said.

"If you become involved, comply fully. Don't try to fight or run," he said. "So far nobody's been harmed, and based on predictors, nobody would be harmed if they comply with what this person is requesting. Common sense prevails in cases like these. Your life is worth more than your stuff."