GVL / Risho Wooten
Grand Valley State University’s Police Department (GVPD) is advising students to remain vigilant for the remainder of the semester season, addressing recent events relating to campus safety, including a fight and armed robbery on Saturday, Jan. 18, a small fire in Laker Village the week of Jan. 13 and concerns related to severe weather.
According to a GVSU Safety Notice that was sent to students, an armed robbery and fight involving a firearm was reported at an off-campus apartment complex on 48th Avenue. A male victim reported that he was approached by an unknown group of males who threatened the victim with a firearm, stealing his sunglasses. A vehicle, a Jeep SUV, sped away from the scene and was identified by police. A chase was initiated, but ended when the car entered Kent County. Deputies arrived on scene at the apartment complex to an active fight. The fight was broken up and a suspect attempted to hide, but was found and taken into custody. A firearm was found nearby and the suspect taken into custody is facing firearm charges. There were no injuries from the incident, and those involved weren’t GVSU students.
GVPD Chief Brandon DeHaan also mentioned the small apartment fire in Laker Village. According to DeHaan, no one was injured.
“Damage was minimal,” DeHaan said. “It started out as a cooking fire, which is common on campus. (Students should) always call emergency services, but (should also) make use of fire extinguishers in kitchen areas on campus.”
In addition, snow and ice conditions caused the University to go remote from Tuesday, Jan. 21 through Thursday, Jan. 23. DeHaan was quick to point out that making the decision to call off school is always based on moment-to-moment consideration.
“We knew it (the weather) was going to be a challenge,” DeHaan said. “Ultimately, we were able to make the right calls day by day to keep people safe. Part of this is (that) we’re in conversation with both campuses (Allendale and Pew).”
DeHaan said that making sure a vehicle is properly maintained, whether that be having enough gas, filling tires or owning an ice scraper can go a long way in making snow days a little easier. He also said it’s important to make sure students have proper gear when going out in the cold.
“Make sure you’re dressed appropriately, especially if you have to walk any distance,” DeHaan said. “Bring the right gloves, hat and jacket to keep (yourself) safe.”
As far as incidents during the snowstorms go, DeHaan said it is common for GVPD to receive calls about cars stuck in the snow. He mentioned that alternate routes of travel should be considered in extreme weather conditions.
“Take the bus if you absolutely have to travel,” DeHaan said. “The buses are always running, and even though you might not want to wait at a bus stop in this weather, you can get where you need to go, wherever it be Meijer or somewhere else.”
As far as other things to watch for on campus, DeHaan gave a piece of simple advice that can go a long way in helping students.
“Just always be aware of your surroundings,” he said. “Even if nothing is happening, bystander awareness is huge. If you see something, say something.”
The seemingly intuitive idea makes sense for students, especially when they’re at places with large crowds, such as parties or other gatherings. DeHaan mentioned that taking responsibility for friends can also help keep students aware.
“When you go out at night, come home with the people you left with,” DeHaan said. “No one (should) get left behind.”