Indiana Borough Police have issued a reminder to college students after an incident on Rice Avenue near IUP Campus early Sunday morning.
Police reported that around 12:45 AM, a college-aged woman ran into a college-aged man on campus and the man appeared to have a handgun with him. The two spoke briefly before the man was called away by others. Officers said that the woman was not threatened with the gun, nor was it ever pointed at her. No other similar incidents were reported for the rest of the overnight hours.
The man was described as wearing jeans and having curly hair. The woman was not identified.
The investigation into the incident is continuing, and police are asking for video from the area to help. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 724-349-2121.
Meanwhile, IUP representatives say they are aware of the situation and will assist police, but it was determined that there was no emergency situation and did not activate the emergency contact system. IUP Police did issue a statement to students, providing personal safety tips for students, including:
- Stay aware of your surroundings.
- Do not admit strangers into your residence hall.
- Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call for help.
- Avoid confrontations.
- Stay in well-lit public areas.
They also gave out several phone numbers for students to use if they do get in trouble.
- University Police: 724-357-2141
- IUP Health Service: 724-357-2550
- Counseling Center: 724-357-2621
- Haven Project: 724-357-3947
- Crisis Intervention 24/7 Hotline: 988 or 1-877-333-2470
- Alice Paul House 24/7 Hotline: 724-349-4444
- Students can also call 911 or go to a nearby Emergency room
