IUPUI police alert public to robbery attempts at White River Sta - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

IUPUI police have issued an alert after a pair of reported robberies at White River State Park.

A male victim reported being robbed by a man wearing a black coat with red stripes and jeans around 9 p.m. on February 13. The victim said the man stuck what he believed to be a gun in his back and demanded the victim's money along the promenade/canal walk.

The victim, who was not injured, said the suspect ran east toward the Indianapolis Zoo after the incident.

Friday night (February 22), another male victim reported being robbed at gunpoint on the trail behind the zoo around 2:45 pm. The victim of that robbery, an IUPUI student, says he was jogging when two Hispanic males approached him. One of the men pointed a revolver at him and demanded the victim's wallet.

The victim was struck with a piece of wood and suffered minor injuries. The suspects ran eastbound from the robbery scene.

Police offered the following safety tips if you find yourself facing a robbery attempt:

• Go with your instincts, but be realistic about your ability to fight off someone; your instinct may be to run, scream, kick, hit or bite.
• However you decide to respond, be sure you do so with full commitment of your effort.
• Try to remember as many details as possible and alert police as soon as possible.
• Your goal should be to escape safely and survive.

IUPUI Police updates