Tufts University Police ask the community to be on alert after recent BB gun attacks

On August 21, 2024, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Dear members of the Tufts University community:

The Tufts University Police Department is aware of multiple reports to law enforcement regarding the use of pellet BB guns in and around the Medford, Somerville, and Brookline areas; we are sharing this information with our Tufts University community for awareness.

Several individuals were approached while they were walking by a dark-colored motor vehicle, possibly an older model Jeep, and struck with an unknown object that came from the area of the vehicle and was described as a BB pellet.

The Tufts University Police, together with our law enforcement partners, are actively investigating these incidents and encourages you to report any information that may be helpful by calling the Tufts University Police Department at 617-627-3030 or 617-627-6911 from any on-campus phone. Please report any suspicious activity, people, circumstances, or security concerns to our team. Timely reporting is critical.

While those who commit such crimes are fully responsible for their actions, we would like to take this opportunity to suggest the following safety measures:

Be particularly alert to your surroundings when you are walking and avoid distractions such as headphones and cell phone use.
Be observant of those that are traveling in the area where you are walking.
Whenever possible travel in well-lit and populated areas and walk with a co-worker/friend.
If you think someone is following you, try to move into an area where other people are present like a store or restaurant. Don’t be afraid to call for help.
Program the Tufts Police Emergency Line (617-627-6911) into your cell phone to call for immediate assistance on campus. For off-campus emergencies call 911 for assistance.
Emergency Blue Light Call Boxes are installed throughout our campuses, which provide a direct line of communication to Public Safety’s 24-hour Dispatch Center. Please familiarize yourself with their locations.
Public Safety can provide safety escorts to off-site parking facilities at times and 24/7 within the Tremont Street garage. More information regarding safety escorts is available on the Tufts Police website. Call 617-627-3030 to request assistance.