Timely Warning, Threats Statements, 75 Kneeland Street

Today we received a report from the Tufts Medical Center (TMC) Public Safety Department of an incident that occurred this morning at 75 Kneeland Street.  A TMC employee reported being followed by an unknown male into the building and on to the elevator.  While being followed, the victim was threatened by the suspect, and after the threats was heard to be quoting bible phrases. The suspect was reported to have exited onto the second floor of the building where he was last seen.  TMC Public Safety Officers searched the area soon after and the individual was now longer in the area.

The victim described the suspect to TMC Public Safety as a tall, African American male with a blue coat, beige pants, a backpack and headphones.

TUPD Officers have increased their presence in the building and around the surrounding streets.   TUPD and TMC investigators will be working to determine the identity of the suspect and take appropriate legal and protective action.

While victims of crimes are never to blame for criminal activity, TUPD recommends the following risk reduction and safety precautions:

• Remain alert and observant of the people around you.
• If you think someone is following you, avoid entering an isolated area and move quickly toward a public area such an open store or restaurant. Don’t be afraid to call out for help.
• Stick to well-lit and well-travelled routes and walk with friends whenever possible.
• Utilize the SafeRide service.  Members of the Boston Health Sciences campus can dial Tufts Police at (617) 636-6610 or from a campus phone dial X-66610.
• Program the Tufts Police number into your cell phone so you will be prepared in an emergency (617-627-6911).
• Report any suspicious persons or circumstances to Tufts Police immediately at 617-627-6911 or x66911 from an on-campus phone, or dial 911 for off campus emergencies.

SA 17-9-CPB