Newark Police investigate attempted robbery of ELI student

7:05 p.m., Feb. 25, 2014--Newark Police are investigating the attempted robbery of a University of Delaware English Language Institute student that occurred at approximately 12:48 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 25, in front of 344 East Main St., Newark.  

During the incident, the 28-year-old male student had just left an ATM in Newark Shopping Center and was walking eastbound on the north side of East Main Street. In the area of 344 East Main St., he was approached from behind by an unknown man who displayed a handgun and demanded the his property. The victim grabbed the suspect’s handgun and, after a brief struggle, the victim was able to disarm the suspect who fled empty handed westbound on East Main Street. The gun was discovered to be a BB gun.  

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The ELI student sustained minor abrasions to his hands but refused medical treatment.  

The suspect is described as a white male, approximately 20 years old, 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, with a thin build and very short hair. He was wearing a black hooded jacket with the hood pulled up over his head, a black flat brimmed baseball hat, and blue jeans.  

There is no surveillance video available at this time. A photo of the BB gun recovered at the scene is attached.

Anyone with additional information about this incident should contact Detective Fred Nelson at 302-366-7110 ext. 136 or frederick.nelson@cj.state.de.us.  Anonymous tips can be texted to 302NPD, with the message to TIP411. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available.

Safety tips

UD Police remind members of the University community to take precautions to safeguard themselves against crime: 

• Show a confident attitude and be alert and aware of your surroundings. 

• Avoid walking alone at night. Walk with a group, ride a UD shuttle bus or call for a walking escort.

• Use well-lighted paths and sidewalks, and take the most direct route. 

• Report all suspicious activity by calling 911. 

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