WCDB NEWS -- *Shooting Update*

Email from UPD
Subject: Safety Alert - Two Additional Off-Campus Incidents

Dear UAlbany Student, Faculty and Staff:

In addition to the shooting of a UAlbany student that occurred last night off-campus in the vicinity of Yates Street and Lake, we have learned of two other incidents involving UAlbany students that occurred off-campus last night.

First, there was a robbery near the intersection of Ontario and State Street. The suspect was identified as a black male. The alleged assailant struck the victim in the head with an unknown object and took about $25, then fled on a small bicycle. The victim was treated and released by ambulance personnel.

In addition, there was an attempted robbery near 473 Hamilton Street . Two black males attempted to take the victim's purse. The victim held onto the purse preventing it from being taken from her and two persons who witnessed the incident chased the two males until one, implying he had a weapon, told them they had "better stop." Both fled on foot. The victim was treated and released by ambulance personnel.

Albany City Police are vigorously investigating these crimes, as well as the shooting incident we notified you about earlier today. University Police are fully cooperating with the Albany City Police Department investigations.

The safety of our students is the University's highest priority - both on and off campus. University Police will increase their presence and visibility in our downtown campus area immediately, especially around Alumni Quad and the Draper Complex.

We strongly encourage everyone to be vigilant about your personal safety if you are out at night in the midtown Albany area.

We remind you that the following actions may help to increase your personal safety:

* Walk in the company of others at night
* Keep a cell phone handy to call authorities
* Be aware of your surroundings
* Avoid dark places
* Be aware of places people can hide
* Walk in the middle of the road if you are walking on a dark, quiet street with no traffic
* Report any and all suspicious person(s) or activities to the Albany Police Department (911) or the University Police Department (911 or 442-3131)

We will follow up with you regarding any additional information as it becomes available. The University will hold an Open Forum on safety issues for our entire community. Detailed information on the time and place will be forthcoming today.

Thank you.

J. Frank Wiley
Chief of Police

Any information regarding the shooting or these incidents should be reported to University Police @ 442-3131 or 911.