MEMPHIS, Tenn — The University of Memphis’ Police Services said a 16-year-old suspect has been arrested and charges are pending in some recent robberies on and near campus.
In response to the robberies, the school said in a letter to students and staff that it would add increased lighting, secure fencing, and add additional cameras in several of the parking lots. They said they are also working with a national security consulting firm to look at other safety improvements that can be made.
This comes after the most recent robbery reported by school police, which happened about 9:25 p.m. Monday, Feb. 13, 2023. A man and woman said they were walking along Central near Deloach when two people in ski masks and armed with guns came up and demanded their belongings. The two told police the robbers got away in a red sedan.
About a minute later, University Police said one suspect approached a woman in the 3600 block of Norriswood and demanded her belongings.
Investigators said no one was injured. The getaway vehicle was described as a stolen red 4-door Mercedes.
Two days earlier, about 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, a woman told police she was in the parking lot in the 3600 block of Central when a man about 5’8” tall wearing a gray do-rag and grey camouflage gaiter over his face approached and demanded her belongings. The woman told investigators he acted like he had a gun, though she did not see one. Investigators said the woman screamed and ran, and the suspect ran away. She was not hurt.
U of M leaders said Wednesday the red Mercedes has since been recovered, along with a second stolen vehicle found at the same location which they said was also used in some recent crimes at the U of M and across Memphis.
The U of M also said charges are pending against the 16-year-old who was taken into custody as they continue their investigation.
Anyone with information can contact University Police or Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.
The University Police can be contacted at 901-678-4357 (678-HELP), at police@memphis.edu or anonymously at Silent Report. The Memphis Police Department can also be contacted at 901-545-2677 (545-COPS).
Sign up to receive emergency alert messages and contact Police Services through the LiveSafe app for smartphones (LiveSafe iOS or LiveSafe Android for download instructions.)
The Tiger Escort Program provides on-campus escorts from dusk until dawn by calling 901-678-4663(HOME). Students at the Law School can request an escort at the security desk.