The Virginia Tech Police Department received the following information from the Carilion Clinic Police Department and is passing it along for situational awareness. 

On Nov. 11, 2019 at approximately 5:30 a.m., a Carilion employee reported that she was followed by a minivan out of the Riverwalk Garage located at 1860 S. Jefferson Street, Roanoke, Va..  At the intersection of Elm Avenue and Williamson Road, the van bumped into her vehicle. When the employee got out to check for damage, the male driver of the mini-van reached into employee’s car and removed their purse. After a brief struggle over the purse, the suspect returned to the minivan and fled the scene.

Community members are reminded that:

  • While this is most likely as isolated incident, it is a reminder that crime does happen on our campuses and that we should be extra vigilant at all times, especially when we walk to and from our vehicles alone and at odd hours. 
  • On campus, please be aware and look out for each other, remembering, if you see something odd, report it to Carilion Clinic Police at 540-981-7911 so that it can be investigated.
  • Anytime you feel unsafe at the scene of a traffic crash, calling 911 and staying in your vehicle is always an option.
  • Be cautious when confronting anyone. Always attempt to de-escalate and disengage from a hostile situation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Roanoke Police Department at 540-344-8500 or the Carilion Police Department at 540-981-7911 and share what you know. You can also text RPD at 274637; please begin the text with "RoanokePD" to ensure it is properly sent. Please reference case number 19-120446. Calls to 540-344-8500 and texts can remain anonymous.  

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