Charlottesville Police responded to a report of multiple shots fired early Saturday morning in the 800 block of Hardy Drive, located behind The Standard apartment complex, according to a community alert sent by Tim Longo, chief of the University Police Department and associate vice president for safety and security.
Longo cited information from the Charlottesville Police Department, which describes one suspect as approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall’ and wearing a gray shirt with dreadlocks. The suspect is reported to be armed. The report did not indicate whether there were any injuries.
In June, CPD responded to a shots fired report in which an unoccupied residence at The Standard was hit by a bullet. This is the first community alert since students began moving in for the fall semester Wednesday.
“Community alerts” are shared with the University community when there is sufficient and timely information that can be released to the community without compromising any on-going investigations. “Timely warnings” are sent when crimes committed pose an “on-going threat” to the safety of the community.”
In June, the University announced an option for community members to opt-in to U.Va. Alerts, which were previously only available to students, faculty and staff. Any community member who wishes to receive these notifications may text “UVA” to 226787. Alerts and information are also tweeted on @UVAPolice and @UVA_EM.
The University recommends safety tips for students such as walking in groups, especially late at night, remaining in well-lit areas or taking one of UPD’s free self defense classes.
The Charlottesville Police Department requests that anyone with information regarding this incident call the CPD at (434) 970-3280.