By By: KATE LUCE
staff writer
On Aug. 3 at 3:00 a.m., a public safety advisory was issued to IU South Bend after a report of an injured man was found unconscious outside of campus.
The incident took place next to the Student Activity Center’s parking lot, along 20th Street.
The man is not a student from IU South Bend, and at the time of advisory, IU South Bend’s Police Department were unsure if a crime was even committed. However, his condition is still serious.
As he recovers, the St. Joseph County Metro Homicide Unit has picked up this case because of the nature of the crime.
Safety of campus is a priority for the police department. Alongside the mass advisory that was sent out, the police department issued tips to keep safe, especially during the night.
Letting someone know where one is, being aware of surroundings, avoiding walking alone, not wearing headphones and staying in well-lit areas are just a few ways to keep safe.
Although this happened right outside of campus, many students live a short walk away at The Annex, an apartment complex.
“I wasn’t aware of [the crime] until recently, but it’s really scary to think about. I always end up walking home late from rehearsals, and just that five minute walk is terrifying. I don’t like that I have to constantly look over my shoulder on my own college campus when I’m just walking home,” Miranda Hans said. Hans is an IU South Bend student and Annex resident.
As the fall semester starts back up, escorting services are available for students, especially during the night. If a student feels unsafe, he or she is urged to call campus police to be escorted to their destination. This free service is available 24/7, seven days a week and can be reached by calling (574) 520-4239 or 4239 on any campus phone. If it is an emergency, students are urged to dial 911 for faster assistance.
For more information and updates on this story, head over to iusbpreface.net.
