WEST HAVEN--- West Haven Police are investigating an alleged robbery of a University of New Haven graduate student behind an off-campus apartment Wednesday night.
Police say a male student told police he was confronted around 10 p.m. Wednesday night by a male holding a handgun. The student was returning to his apartment at the College Court Apartment on Campbell Avenue near Smith Court.
The suspect stole a phone, backpack, laptop, and wallet, according to West Haven Police. The victim was not injured.
West Haven Police are still looking for the suspect, but a department spokesperson indicated the the incident was likely random, and rare for the neighborhood, which is considered "safe."
The apartment complex is located across the street from south end of UNH's West Haven campus.
The incident happened the day before freshman move-in day at UNH. Administrators say 1,100 incoming UNH freshman moved into their on-campus dormitories Thursday. Many we spoke with say the armed robbery doesn't impact their view of campus safety.
"I feel like stuff van happen anywhere, stuff can happen on campus. It doesn't really matter, as long as you handle it right," said UNH freshman Morgan Williams.
Brianna Pierce is a native of Georgia and will be majoring in marine biology as a freshman. Pierce says she's prepared herself for the urban environment that exists beyond the UNH campus.
Brianna's father, Derek Pierce, is in the military, and says he's always given his daughter tips to stay safe, like using a "buddy system" while walking and urging his daughter to not walk alone late at night.
"As a parent I don't worry too much, she knows how to take care of herself and she knows how to handle pretty much every situation," said Derrick Pierce.
Karen Grava, the university's director of media relations, wouldn't comment on the incident because it happened "off-campus."
Grava provided FOX CT with an email UNH administrators sent to students notifying them of the robbery and re-enforcing certain safety tips.
"As a general reminder, it is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and to walk or jog with others when possible, in well-populated and well-lit areas. Avoid displaying valuables, including cash and portable electronic devices. It is also a good idea to note the location of emergency Blue Phones along your route."
UNH freshman Evan Deluti said, "I definitely keep it in my mind here, I know the situation, I trust the campus security, trust the campus police. I know they'll keep me protected if i need help."
The suspect is described as a black male, 25-35 years of age, between six-foot and six-foot-five, with a thin build and acne.
If you have any information, contact West Haven Police.