Timely Warnings

What is a Timely Warning (Also Known as an FSU Crime Alert)?

The Clery Act requires institutions to alert the campus community to certain crimes in a manner that is timely and will aid in the prevention of similar crimes. Although the Clery Act doesn’t define “timely,” the intent of a warning regarding a criminal incident(s) is to enable people to protect themselves. Warnings will be issued as soon as pertinent information is available. The warning will contain information about the type of criminal incident that has occurred.

A timely warning will be decided on a case-by-case basis in light of all the facts surrounding a crime, including factors such as the following:

  • The nature of the crime
  • The continuing danger to the campus community
  • The possible risk of compromising law enforcement efforts

Fitchburg State Alert is set up to send notifications to your Fitchburg State University email by default. Mobile phones, land lines, and additional email addresses must be entered by the user. Login with your Fitchburg State Username and Password (Falcon Key) to begin.

Issued Crime Alerts

FS= Fall Semester; SS= Spring Semester; US= Summer Semester

FSU Crime Alert #SS23-01: Motor Vehicle Theft

Police are investigating the theft of a motor vehicle that occurred at approximately 12:20 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 8 in the North 1 resident student parking lot near the Athletics and Recreation Center.

This is an active investigation and anyone with information regarding this matter should contact the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.   

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • University Police also offers a safety escort service. Call 978.665.3111 to arrange an escort.
  • Download the Rave Guardian app for additional support.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the University Police on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS20-02: Aggravated Assault

This is a timely warning from Fitchburg State University.

City and University Police are investigating a reported armed confrontation that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 1:45 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, on Green Street near the entrance to the Green Street parking lots. 

Witnesses described seeing a man and woman being approached by another male, who brandished a knife.  After the confrontation the parties separated and no one was injured. The armed man was described as a black male in his 30s, with no facial hair, standing approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall, 150 pounds, wearing a black winter coat and khaki pants.

A comprehensive investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact the Fitchburg State University Police Department (978.665.3111), or the City of Fitchburg Police Department (978.345.4355). 


As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • -Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety.
Personal safety tips can be found on the University Police on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS20-01: Sexual Assault

This is a timely warning notice from Fitchburg State University.

University Police are investigating a reported sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred during the fall semester and reported to police today. It is believed the parties involved were acquainted with each other before the reported incident. Resources are being made available to the reporting individual. A formal review, conducted in accordance with Title IX guidance, is now under way. University Policies and Procedures ensure a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation that protects all parties.

This notice is to remind the campus community of the university’s commitment to safety and the high standards it sets for its members. No forms of sexual violence or misconduct will be tolerated.


We encourage members of the campus community to consider the following safety tips. However, even when taking precautions, being assaulted is never the survivor’s fault.

  • Report all suspicious persons/crimes to University Policy immediately by dialing 911 (when off campus) or 978.665.3111 (when on campus).
  • Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potentially dangerous situations
  • Trust your instincts
  • Do not be alone with someone you’ve just met or don’t know very well
  • Remember that using alcohol or drugs may interfere with your ability to think clearly, communicate effectively, and respond appropriately. Never leave your drink unattended

Additional information, resources, and personal safety tips for the campus community can be found at sexual assault awareness and sexual assaults and domestic violence

FSU Crime Alert #FS19-02: Indecent Assault and Battery

This is a timely warning from Fitchburg State University.

Police are investigating an indecent assault and battery that was reported to have occurred at approximately 7:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, near Simonds Hall. A female student was walking to Simonds Hall when she was approached by a juvenile male on a bicycle who slapped her on the buttocks and rode away. The reporting individual has been in contact with police and resources are being made available to her. Police have identified a suspect and the investigation is continuing.

This notice is to remind the campus community of the university’s commitment to safety and the high standards it sets for its members. No forms of sexual violence or misconduct will be tolerated.

We encourage members of the campus community to consider the following safety tips. However, even when taking precautions, being assaulted is never the survivor’s fault.

  • Report all suspicious persons/crimes to University Policy immediately by dialing 911 (when off campus) or 978.665.3111 (when on campus).
  • Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potentially dangerous situations.
  • Trust your instincts.
  • Travel in groups, especially at night.
  • Download the Rave Guardian app for additional support.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.
  • Do not prop outside doors and keep your room door locked at all times.
  • Do not walk or run with headphones on or while talking on a cell phone.

Additional information, resources, and personal safety tips for the campus community can be found on the sexual assault awareness page and the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS19-01: Stolen Motor Vehicle

This is a Fitchburg State University timely warning notice.

Police are investigating a motor vehicle theft that occurred early Friday morning from the parking lot at Simonds Hall. The theft was reported to police this afternoon and the vehicle, registered to a student, was recovered soon afterward elsewhere in the city. The individual(s) responsible may have also broken into other motor vehicles in the area of campus. This is an active investigation and anyone with information regarding this matter should contact the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • University Police also offers a safety escort service. Call 978.665.3111 to arrange an escort.
  • Download the Rave Guardian app for additional support.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #SS18-05: Police Activity

Tue April 10, 2018 1:57 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. There is an active and ongoing police presence on Stoneybrook Road, approximately three miles north of campus. While the investigation is continuing, there is no known threat to the Fitchburg State campus.

As state and local police continue their investigation, we advise you to avoid the area for the time being.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #SS18-04: Robbery

Sunday April 1, 2018 4:06 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. Police are investigating a reported robbery that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 3:25 p.m. Sunday at the gas station at 75 Main St. The alleged robber carried a hammer and was believed to have fled on foot. There were no reported injuries in the robbery.

The suspect is described as a white male, approximate 5 feet 3 inches to 5 feet 4 inches tall, with blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt, faded jeans and a purple bandana. The suspect was last observed heading west on Main Street and is not believed to pose a threat to the campus. City and University Police are conducting an active search as part of their comprehensive investigation of the reported robbery.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #SS18-03: Aggravated Assault

Saturday March 24, 2018 2:46 a.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. Local Police are investigating a reported aggravated assault with a knife, that was alleged to have occurred on Saturday, March 24, 2018 at approximately 1:40 a.m., on Main Street near CVS.

The suspect, Michael Walker, is described as a white male, 27 years of age, approximately 6' tall, 170 lbs., with brown hair and blue eyes, remains at large. A comprehensive investigation is ongoing.

No members of the university community were reported to be involved in this incident. The victim was transported for medical treatment. 

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #SS18-02: Safety Notice

Thursday February 8, 2018 2:42 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. University Police are investigating instances of female students being approached by a suspicious individual inviting them for a ride in their vehicle.

The latest incident was alleged to have occurred around 2:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23 near the intersection of North and Main streets. A female Fitchburg State student was walking on North Street when a white male in his 30s with shoulder-length black hair driving a dark colored minivan approached her and lowered his window. He asked if she was a Fitchburg State student and if she needed a ride. She declined and walked away, entering a nearby store.

Further investigation yielded a report of a similar encounter last October between a disheveled male in a vehicle approaching a female Fitchburg State student and offering her a ride in the same location. Both incidents were first reported to University Police this week and their investigation is continuing.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • If possible, avoid walking alone or walking near vacant lots, alleys, construction sites, and wooded areas.
  • Use well-lit and busy sidewalks.
  • Learn the location of emergency phones on campus.
  • Carry a cell phone, whistle or a personal alarm to alert people that you need help.
  • Do not talk on the phone, use an iPod or anything else. 
  • Pay attention to your instincts.
  • When walking to your car, carry your keys ready in hand.
  • When being dropped off at your residence by a taxi, friend or family, ask the driver to wait until you get inside.
  • When getting out of a car at a mall, rest stop, etc., take a look around to make sure that you are not being followed.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
  • The University offers a free app called RAVE Guardian that lets users create a profile of information about themselves, and invite family and friends to their safety network. When needed, the user can request one or more of their Guardians to virtually walk with them on or off campus. The Rave Guardian App can be downloaded in the Apple or Google Play stores by searching for "Rave Guardian." Fitchburg State users can also download it directly from the University's mobile app.
  • Call University Police for a student security escort to your vehicle or building.

FSU Crime Alert #SS18-01: Aggravated Assault

Tuesday January 9, 2018 1:35 a.m.

Local Police are investigating a reported aggravated assault that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 12 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 near 37 Blossom Street. A comprehensive investigation is ongoing.

FSU Safety Notice #FS18-02: Reported Bomb Threat

Monday December 11, 2017 2:12 p.m.

Public safety officials were summoned to the McKay Arts Academy early Monday afternoon when an undated bomb threat was found written on a bathroom stall at the school and was reported to a staff member. Based on assessments by public safety officials from the city of Fitchburg and Fitchburg State University, the school is not being evacuated and activities will be held as previously scheduled. The investigation of the incident is ongoing

FSU Safety Notice #FS18-01: Reported Assault

Thursday December 7, 2017 2:27 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. There is an increased police presence in the area of Myrtle Avenue, Summer Street and Lunenburg Street related to a reported assault. The police investigation is continuing.

 There is no known threat to the campus related to the situation, but we are issuing this notification because of its relative proximity.

FSU Crime Alert: #SS17-02: Incident of Sexual Violence

Friday 4/28/2017 2:31 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. University Police are investigating a reported sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred on or about February 1 in Russell Towers. The alleged incident was reported to University Police earlier today, whereupon additional resources were made available to the student making the report. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

The parties involved are both Fitchburg State students who were acquainted with each other before the reported incident. A comprehensive investigation, being conducted in accordance with Title IX, is now under way.

This notice is to remind the campus community of the University’s commitment to safety and the high standards it sets for its members. No forms of sexual violence or misconduct will be tolerated. Additional resources for the campus community can be found at the Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education website.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #SS17-01: Sexual Assault

Tuesday February 28, 2017 4:23 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. University Police are investigating a reported sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred Wednesday, Feb. 22 in a vehicle outside the McKay Complex. The parties involved are both Fitchburg State students who were acquainted with each other before the reported incident. A comprehensive investigation, being conducted in accordance with Title IX, is now under way.

The alleged incident was reported to University Police earlier today, whereupon additional resources were made available to the student making the report. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

This notice is to remind the campus community of the University’s commitment to safety and the high standards it sets for its members. No forms of sexual violence or misconduct will be tolerated. Additional resources for the campus community can be found at the Fitchburg Anti-Violence Education website.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-06: Sexual Assault

Monday December 12, 2016 3:12 p.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. University Police are investigating a reported sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred early Sunday morning in Russell Towers. The assailant in the case was unknown to the victim.

A comprehensive investigation, being conducted in accordance with Title IX, is now under way. Anyone with information is asked to contact University Police at 978.665.3111. You may notice an increased police presence on campus as well as in residence halls.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

The University Police offer personal safety tips on its website, including:

  • Keep the door(s) to your residence and windows accessible from the outside locked at all times. Report defective locks on windows and doors immediately to the Capital Planning and Maintenance website. Students can also call the Work Request Line at extension 3115.
  • Never sleep in an unlocked room or house.
  • Do not put your names and address on key rings.
  • Do not keep your residence and vehicle keys on the same ring.
  • If you lose the keys or One Card to your residence, have the lock(s) changed. On campus residents should notify the Police immediately.
  • Require visitors to identify themselves before you open your door. Off-campus residents should require official identification from all repair service personnel.
  • Do not let strangers use your phone.
  • If you receive obscene or harassing telephone calls, or several calls with no one on the other end, immediately notify the Fitchburg State University Police.
  • If you find your room has been entered, do not go inside. Go to a neighbor and call the Fitchburg State University Police (for university housing) or the Fitchburg Police Department (for a private residence). If you are already inside, do not disturb the scene or touch anything.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety.

Additional personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-05: Aggravated Assault

Sunday December 11, 2016 4:25 a.m.

This is a safety notice from Fitchburg State University. Local police are investigating an incident that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. this morning, near 194 Highland Avenue.

A male victim suffered stab wounds as a result of an altercation. It is reported that the suspects fled the area in an unknown direction of travel.

A comprehensive criminal investigation is now under way. Anyone with information relevant to the incident is asked to contact the Fitchburg Police Department at 978.345.9648.

For other services, including safety escorts, please contact the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.
  • The University Police Department offers safety escorts to students, staff and faculty. Please call 978.665.3111 to request an escort.

Safety is everyone's business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-04: Indecent Exposure

Tuesday November 29, 2016 11:30 p.m.

University Police are investigating a reported incident that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 9:45 p.m. this evening, near the pedestrian plaza on Highland Avenue. The female victim was walking alone when an unknown male exposed himself to her. The assailant fled on foot. He was described as a white male in his early 20's, approximately six feet tall with a thin build, dark hair and a goatee, wearing a dark sweatshirt and dark pants.

The victim was not injured. A comprehensive criminal investigation is now under way. Anyone with information relevant to the incident is asked to call University Police at 978.665.3111.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.
  • The University Police Department offers safety escorts to students, staff and faculty. Please call 978.665.3111 to request an escort.

Safety is everyone's business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-03: Sexual Assault

Sunday November 20, 2016 10:44 a.m.

University Police are investigating a reported sexual assault that was alleged to have occurred at approximately 1 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 on Snow Street near the rear of the Recreation Center. The female victim was walking alone when she was groped from behind. The assailant fled on foot. A comprehensive investigation, being conducted in accordance with Title IX, is now under way.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone’s business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-02: Armed Robbery

Sunday October 30, 2016 5:35 a.m.

Local and State Police are investigating a reported armed robbery that occurred this morning at 123 Myrtle Ave. Three individuals, who were reported to be armed and wearing masks remain at large. This is not believed to be a random act and no students were involved in this incident. A comprehensive investigation is ongoing.

As always, we encourage members of the campus to keep the following in mind:

  • Dial 911 for off-campus emergencies.
  • On campus, report suspicious people to the Fitchburg State University Police Department at 978.665.3111.
  • Report all criminal incidents and losses to University Police officers immediately.

Safety is everyone's business. Be cautious, careful, and alert to reduce the risk of theft or incidents that might compromise safety. Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

FSU Crime Alert #FS16-01: Off-Campus Shooting

Sunday October 16, 2016 1:05 p.m.

Local police are investigating a shooting that occurred late this morning at Majors Café at 149 Lunenburg St. The suspects left the area in a charcoal colored SUV. The shooter was described as a dark skinned male, wearing a dark hoodie and blue jeans. This incident is not believed to be a random act.

While there is no known connection to the University, we are advising members of our community to be vigilant because of the scene's proximity to campus. Please call 911 or University Police at 978.665.3111 to report any suspicious activity. We will keep the campus advised of the situation.

Personal safety tips can be found on the on and off campus safety page.

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University Police

University Police provides services to promote campus-wide safety and is available to assist the campus community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
University Police Station
32 Clinton St
(across from the Recreation Center)