June 22, 2018

Loyola Community,

Campus Safety is writing to notify you of a vehicular hijacking that occurred overnight at approximately 12:52 a.m. in the 1000 block of West Rosemont Avenue.

A non-Loyola-affiliated person was inside of their parked vehicle when they were approached by several people who took control of the vehicle and fled the area. Detailed descriptions of the offenders are unavailable at this time.

Campus Safety is working closely with the Chicago Police Department on the investigation. If anyone has information on the incident, please call Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE or the Chicago Police Department via 9-1-1 or 312.744.8263. The Chicago Police Department also continues to investigate leads related to other recent violent incidents in the district, and any new updates will be posted to the 24th District Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (CAPS) and CLEARMAP websites. 

Please also keep the following risk-reduction tips in mind:

• Always stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Refrain from using headphones or talking on the phone, as this minimizes your ability to hear an approaching threat.
• Keep your vehicle locked at all times and valuables hidden.
• If you see something you believe to be suspicious, immediately notify Campus Safety at 773.508.SAFE or the Chicago Police Department via 9-1-1 or 312.744.8263.
• Investigative follow-up will be dependent on the amount of detail a person can recall. It is important to remember as many identifying characteristics about the offender(s) as possible. This can include the license plate of any involved vehicle, physical characteristics of the person, their clothing, any weapons used, direction of flight, etc.

Campus Safety recognizes that survivors are not at fault for any crime. Students who are seeking resources related to acts of violence can contact the Wellness Center at 773.508.2530 or visit the Community Coalition on Gender-Based Violence website. Faculty and staff in need of resources are encouraged to utilize the University’s Employee Assistance Program.

Sincerely,

Thomas K. Murray
Director of Campus Safety and Chief of Police