ODU on alert after recent crimes near campus

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY.com) -- The Old Dominion University community is on alert. The school is held a town hall meeting Thursday afternoon to discuss the recent crimes near campus. A 7 p.m. town hall was canceled because of the weather.

Police say an Old Dominion University student became a victim on 48th Street near Killam Avenue early Wednesday morning. ODU's Police Chief, Rudolph Burwell says the young woman was visiting friends when two strangers busted in, tried to sexually assault her, and then shot one of her friends in the leg.

Minutes earlier, police say four students were robbed about a block away on Killam Avenue.

Burwell told WAVY.com, "We've had unfortunate incidents that have occurred in the last two weeks... There seems to be a pattern that has developed - not on the main campus, outside the campus."

As investigators look for suspects in the rash of crimes, students are stunned about Wednesday's early morning events.

Chase Fulghum told WAVY.com he was just getting to 48th Street to see a friend when officers were closing off the road. He said, "I know a lot of people are concerned. This is our home. We want to keep it as safe as we can."

Fulghum and fellow students say they try to take precautions.

"I usually walk in groups, or if I'm by myself I'm talking on the phone. My mom bought me some pepper spray so I use that now," Bryana Head told WAVY.com.

The University encourages a common sense approach to safety.

ODU Dean of Students, Geneva Walker-Johnson said the University encourages a common sense approach to safety. For example she explained, "...being aware of their surroundings, not texting and walking, not having earphones in so they can't hear someone approaching them. Not to take those cow paths, but to stay on lighted streets."

Gege Latif lives on-campus. She said she's noticed changes in the last two weeks. According to Latif, "They have a lot more police presence. It's obvious they have more police presence."

Students, faculty, and staff were invited to the Webb University Center at 12:30PM Thursday to hear about the recent crimes. Walker-Johnson said information will also be available to help students get counseling if needed. She said she's sending letters about recent crimes to parents of ODU's more than 17,000 students.

Police are asking that if you see any suspicious person or activities to call the Old Dominion University police at 683-4000.

Students who live off-campus and are concerned for their safety can contact the Office of Student Housing at 683-4283 to inquire about temporary housing.

Walker-Johnson summed up what students told WAVY.com throughout the day: "What happens to one of us happens to all of us."