To the Temple Community,  

Just before 1:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22, a Temple student walking off campus on the 1500 block of Oxford Street was approached by two males who displayed a handgun and took the student’s phone. As the suspects fled, one shot was fired into the air. There were no physical injuries. The suspects fled north on Oxford Street.  

Through a review of surveillance footage, investigators have determined that the same suspects were involved in a robbery that took place minutes prior on the 1300 block of Carlisle Street, which was not reported to police. During the Carlisle Street robbery, a phone was taken from an individual not affiliated with Temple University. 

At this time, no arrests have been made. Temple and Philadelphia police are coordinating a concentrated presence in and around the area. Surveillance photos will be shared on social media by Temple’s Department of Public Safety (TUDPS) later this morning.  

The investigation is ongoing between the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) and TUDPS. Anyone with information is urged to contact the PPD tip line at 215-686-TIPS (8477) or Central Detectives at 215-686-3093. You also can contact Temple’s Investigations Unit at 215-204-6200 or Temple Police at 215-204-1234.  

We encourage all members of our community to become familiar with the university’s available safety resources, such as the walking escort program, the Flight shuttle service and additional safety resources within the TUSafe app.  

Unfortunately, this is the second similar incident this week. Incidents like this are deeply troubling. Students who are impacted are encouraged to seek support through Tuttleman Counseling Services. For faculty and staff members, our employee assistance program offers support and resources 24/7 online or by calling 1-888-267-8126.  

More safety resources can also be found at safety.temple.edu.  

Sincerely,  

Jennifer Griffin 
Vice President for Public Safety and Chief of Police