NC West Virginia News

West Virginia University Police issued a Campus Warning on Saturday following a burglary report at 216 Belmar Ave., near the Downtown campus area. The incident, which occurred before 6 a.m. on Saturday, was reported to the University Police Department (UPD) later that evening. Surveillance footage revealed one of two suspects entering through an unlocked basement window.

University Police are actively investigating the case and have released several photos of one suspect. Investigators are exploring potential connections to two previous incidents.

Chief Sherry St. Clair emphasized the importance of securing property: “We cannot stress enough how important it is that members of our University community secure their property — whether that be their homes or vehicles.”

Ahead of winter break, Chief St. Clair, UPD officers, and other university representatives will visit residences in specific areas starting at 4 p.m. on Monday to provide safety reminders. Students not present during these visits may find printed information upon returning home.

The UPD encourages anyone with helpful information to contact them at 304-293-3136 or visit their office at 992 Elmer Prince Drive. Anonymous tips are welcome.

Safety tips include locking windows, doors, and vehicles; developing routines for checking locks; not leaving spare keys accessible; reporting lost keys or IDs immediately; calling 911 if in danger; and using emergency call systems when necessary.

Additional resources are available from various WVU departments and local support centers for health, safety, preparedness, and training information. Students and employees are encouraged to follow WVU Safety channels on social media and download the LiveSafe app for updates.