We are sharing the below information on behalf of the Columbus Division of Police regarding a series of crimes that occurred in the off-campus area.
A series of crimes similar in nature occurred overnight, with all taking place off-campus between 10:25 p.m. and 2:20 a.m.
On 8/17/2021, at approximately 10:25 p.m., a carjacking occurred near Norwich and Indianola. Two suspects showed guns and stole a vehicle. The victim was able to exit the car and no injuries were reported. The victim was unaffiliated with the university, meaning not a student, faculty or staff member.
Three additional incidents occurred on 8/18/2021 – all involving a suspect showing a gun in an attempted robbery.
- The first occurred around 12:40 a.m. near E. 18th Avenue and N. 4th Street. Three Ohio State students were approached by an unknown male that demanded their purses and wallets. The suspect fled westbound toward High Street. No injuries were reported.
- At 12:55 a.m., an attempted robbery occurred outside Ugly Tuna Saloona 2 (195 Chittenden Ave.). When approached by the suspect, the victims ran inside the business without giving up their belongings and avoided harm. The suspect then fled westbound toward High Street. It is unknown at this time if the victims are affiliated with Ohio State.
- At 2:20 a.m., two Ohio State students were robbed near E. 13th Avenue and Indianola Avenue. Again, no injuries were reported. The suspect took the victims’ cell phones.
Suspect details are limited but we have reason to believe that these crimes may be related. Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Columbus Division of Police at 614-645-4545.
Crimes are never the fault of the victim. The university issued a wide-ranging return to campus safety message on Tuesday and we encourage everyone to review it to access safety tips and resources. The Ohio State University Police Division encourages everyone to lock doors and windows. When possible, please walk with friends or coworkers and always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. If you see something, say something: report suspicious behavior by calling police. Additional safety resources are available at: http:/dps.osu.edu/resources.
The Ohio State University Police Division carefully considers information contained in safety notices. All decisions are handled on a case-by-case basis with the safety of our campus community in mind. Law enforcement officers and dispatchers are trained to interview witnesses in an effort to obtain as much information as possible, such as build, hair style, hair color, facial hair, skin tone, eye color, tattoos or identifying marks, teeth, clothing, shoes, etc. OSUPD may limit the use of race, or other descriptors, unless accompanied by a detailed description of the suspect. In an effort to share information in a timely manner, details may be limited and are based on information known or reported at the time.