Police Report Carjacking at Mission Bay Campus

A UCSF employee became the victim of a carjacking while unloading her vehicle at UCSF Mission Bay on Owens Street at 6th Street on July 4 at 7:50 a.m. The suspects' vehicle had pulled up behind the victim's vehicle. One of the suspects came up to the victim and asked her for directions. After providing the suspect with directions, the victim turned her back to the suspect to tend to her vehicle. The suspect then struck the victim with his arm, grabbed her keys and fled with her vehicle. The two suspects were described as the following: * A black male adult, 30s, 5 feet 11 inches tall, medium build, wearing a brown beanie cap and blue sweatshirt
* A black male adult The suspect's vehicle is described as a gray or navy blue Buick or Chevrolet, late '80s model, four doors with all windows tinted very dark. Carjacking can take place anytime, anyplace and to anyone. However, the majority of these crimes occur at night at intersections and parking lots in high-crime areas. Luxury cars and SUVs are the preferred choice of a carjacker. This is due to the value of these cars and the fact that many cars are stolen and sold or chopped for parts. However, often cars are stolen simply because the criminal wants to go on a joyride. Even those who don't drive an expensive car could become a target if they are in the wrong place at the wrong time and unprepared. Safety Tips The UCSF Police Department is offering these tips: * Before you get in the car * Make sure your car is in good running condition. Having car trouble could make you an easy target.
* When approaching your car, pay attention to activity nearby. If someone suspicious is near your car, do not attempt to get in. Keep walking and call 911 if you feel threatened.
* Have your key in hand when approaching your car. Before getting in, check the handles, locks and backseat to make sure no one has entered your car.
* Separate your car keys from your house keys. Remove any documents in your car that identify your address or other personal information. If a carjacker takes your car, you don't want the criminal to be able to learn where you live.
* Purchase a cell phone and keep it with you when you drive, in case you need to call 911. When you get out of your car * Always park in an area that is well lighted. If it is daytime and you will be leaving after sundown, consider the change in lighting. When possible, avoid parking near dumpsters, large vans or trucks, wooded areas or anything else that limits visibility.
* If you are uncomfortable with where you've parked, locate a security guard who can walk you to your car.
* Keep valuables out of plain view, even if the car is locked. If noticed, a valuable item in your car could make you a target. When you're driving your car * If someone flags you down from the side of the road, appearing to need assistance, do not stop and get out of your car. Go somewhere safe and call for assistance.
* Always keep your car doors locked, and do not lower your windows enough for a carjacker to get his arm in the window.
* Be aware of activity near your car. Ca jackers single out people who do not appear to be alert. Be suspicious of people approaching your car, even if they are just asking for directions or handing out flyers. If a suspicious person approaches your car, drive away carefully.
* If someone bumps your car, do not get out. Keep your doors locked and windows up. Minor accidents are sometimes simulated by carjackers to get you to stop and exit your car. Instead, drive to the nearest police or fire station, or a well-lighted, populated area.
* Be aware of your surroundings, especially when you must slow down or stop. Car jackings occur most often at garages, parking lots, intersections, gas stations, car washes, highway entry and exit ramps and drive-up ATMs. The campus community can help fight crime by reporting suspicious activity to UCSF PD at 415/476-1414 or 9-911 for in-progress events. Key UCPD Contacts Security Surveys: Mike Sorenson, 415/476-5683
Crime Prevention Information: Steve Lubeski 415/502-9396 Mission Bay Security: 415/476-0399 Medical Center Security: 415/885-7890