West Virginia University Police have issued a campus-wide warning following the theft of a work truck from a parking lot on the Health Sciences campus. The vehicle, a white 2012 GMC Sierra, was reported stolen on Friday, September 26, after it was left unlocked with the keys inside.
Key Takeaways
- A white 2012 GMC Sierra truck was stolen from Lot 81 on the WVU Health Sciences campus.
- The vehicle has a Pennsylvania license plate: ZXP4905.
- Investigators report the truck was left unlocked with a window down and the keys in the visor.
- University Police are asking the public for information and have issued safety reminders to the community.
Details of the Vehicle Theft
The West Virginia University Police Department (UPD) is actively searching for a company vehicle stolen from campus. The truck is described as a white 2012 GMC Sierra and bears the Pennsylvania registration tag ZXP4905. The vehicle belongs to an external company that was performing work on university grounds.
According to the official report, the truck was last seen at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 25. It was parked in Lot 81, which is located near the Pride Practice Facility on the Health Sciences portion of the campus. The theft was discovered and reported to authorities the following day.
Investigators were informed that the vehicle was not secured at the time of the incident. The report states the truck was unlocked, one of its windows was left down, and the keys had been placed in the sun visor, making it an easy target for theft.
Vehicle at a Glance
- Make: GMC
- Model: Sierra
- Year: 2012
- Color: White
- License Plate: ZXP4905 (Pennsylvania)
- Last Known Location: Lot 81, WVU Health Sciences Campus
Police Appeal for Public Assistance
In response to the theft, University Police issued a Campus Warning to alert students, faculty, and staff. This is part of WVU's tiered emergency notification system designed to keep the community informed of potential safety threats.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has information about its current location to come forward. The department has provided multiple ways for the public to share tips.
"Anyone with information about the location of the vehicle is asked to contact UPD by calling 304-293-3136 or by sending a tip via the LiveSafe app," the department stated in its official communication.
The LiveSafe app is a mobile safety tool that allows users to discreetly and directly communicate with campus police, share their location with friends, and access emergency resources. Officials encourage its use for reporting suspicious activity.
University Reinforces Campus Safety Protocols
Following the incident, West Virginia University officials took the opportunity to remind the entire campus community about the importance of personal and property security. The university emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe environment and directed individuals to its safety websites for comprehensive advice and services.
The theft of the unlocked truck serves as a critical reminder of how preventative measures can deter crime. University officials have reiterated several key safety practices to help prevent similar incidents.
Essential Vehicle and Property Security
To avoid becoming a victim of theft, the university recommends a routine approach to securing personal and university property. These simple habits can significantly reduce the risk of crime.
- Always Lock Your Vehicle: Never leave your car unlocked, even for a short period. Ensure all windows are fully closed.
- Remove Valuables: Do not leave electronics, bags, or other valuables in plain sight. Store them in the trunk or take them with you.
- Never Leave Keys Inside: A vehicle should never be left with the keys inside, including in the ignition, visor, or glove compartment.
- Secure Your Residence: The same principles apply to dorm rooms, apartments, and houses. Always lock exterior doors when you are away or asleep.
WVU's Emergency Notification System
The Campus Warning issued for this theft is one part of a three-tiered system WVU uses to communicate with its community. The system is designed to provide timely information based on the severity of a situation, ranging from informational alerts to immediate emergency notifications for active threats.
Campus Resources for Safety and Support
West Virginia University provides a wide array of resources dedicated to the well-being and security of its students and employees. Officials encourage community members to familiarize themselves with these services before an emergency occurs.
If you ever feel you are in danger or witness a crime, the first step is to call 911 immediately. For non-emergency situations or to report suspicious activity on campus, the WVU Police Department can be reached directly.
Key Contact Information and Support Services:
- Emergency Services: 911
- WVU Police Department: 304-293-3136 (for tips) or 304-293-2677
- WVU LiveSafe App: A free mobile app for reporting tips and emergency contact.
- Blue Light Emergency Phones: Located throughout campus for direct connection to UPD.
- WVU CARE Team: Provides support for students in distress.
- WVU Carruth Center: Offers psychological and counseling services at 304-293-4431.
The university also maintains active social media channels to distribute safety information. Students and staff are encouraged to follow @WVUsafety on X (formerly Twitter) and @WVUsafetyofficial on Instagram, as well as the WVU Safety and Wellness page on Facebook, for regular updates and advice.