RICHMOND, Va. -- Three students were hurt and a suspect was taken into custody following a string of overnight robberies on and near the VCU campus.
"The first incident took place on the 600 block of West Cary street. A student was approached by a suspect armed with a firearm who demanded property. The suspect fled with the property," a VCU Police spokesperson said. "The second incident took place at Shafer and Franklin streets. Two students were approached by a suspect with a firearm who demanded property. One student was struck with the weapon and sustained minor injuries."
Cyrus Z. Fletcher, 18, of King George, is charged with one count of robbery and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. Additional charges are pending, police said.
The third incident was reported on the 900 block of Park Avenue.
"Two students were again approached by a suspect armed with a firearm who demanded property. Both students were assaulted and sustained minor injuries," police said.
Richmond Police located the suspect along the 400 block of North Harrison Street and arrested him at about 4:22 a.m.
"The property taken by the suspect was recovered when the suspect was arrested," police said. "VCU Police, working in concert with Richmond Police, are committed to the safety of our students, faculty and staff."
Cyrus Z. Fletcher, 18, of King George has been charged with one count of robbery and use of a firearm in commission of a felony. Detectives are still investigating. Additional charges are pending. Crime Insider sources said Fletcher is a VUU student.
VCU Police have increased patrols and visibility on campus.
But students said it's hard to ignore the crimes.
"Yeah, a little bit of concern because it is kind of often you know,” said Joseph Saitta.
"Definitely, especially being in a city it's kind of like you're unsure what's going to happen. It kind of makes me wonder what's going on,” said Sarah Danial. "If I have classes at night, I try not to walk by myself when I go home because sometimes at night you feel a little unsafe in certain areas."
Despite the arrest, VCU students say they will remain vigilante as they finish up the semester.
"We do always walk in pairs. Usually, if it is later we don't go crazy far off campus usually,” said Saitta.
VCU police say it’s important to always be award of your surroundings.
If you see any suspicious activity or a victim of a crime, contact VCU police at 804-828-1234.
