Over winter break, Case Western Reserve University experienced a surge in carjackings in the campus area, with four occuring in the span of one month.

The first two, which took place on Dec. 19 at 6:25 p.m. and Dec. 21 at 9:05 p.m., happened on Mayfield Road between 123rd and 125th St. The third case took place on Dec. 25 around 11:23 p.m. and happened near Mayfield Road and E. 120th St. on Random Road. Just two days later, the fourth incident occurred on Dec. 27 at 9:48 p.m. near Paul Avenue.

In all four instances, the suspect carried a gun with them. During the fourth encounter, the suspect shot a student in the leg. Thankfully, the student was transported to University Hospitals, where they were treated and later discharged.

In the early afternoon of Dec. 31, CWRU announced that they arrested four suspects that were involved in the carjackings and recovered two of the four stolen vehicles, in collaboration efforts with multiple surrounding police departments.

CWRU stated that the health and safety of its campus community remain its primary concern. Multiple steps have been taken to increase the university’s public safety presence. The first involves the increased number of Safe Ride vehicles around campus to lower wait times and to allow for better commute times. CWRU still highly encourages all faculty, staff and students to use this service after dark.

The university has also increased campus safety measures in the Little Italy area, the location of several of the carjackings. University Circle and Cleveland police departments are working closely with CWRU to identify ways to reduce risks within and near the campus. The university has also engaged with Little Italy residents and business owners about this issue.

In addition, officers provide a breadth of safety training, during which participants can learn ways to protect themselves from danger. More information can be found at the CWRU Public Safety Training site. The public safety staff at CWRU also hosts presentations to share prevention and safety recommendations in the face of danger. If you have any questions or concerns, their office can be contacted at crimeprevention@case.edu or at (216) 368-1243.