Armed robber alert causes alarm

Many students said they had a scare Wednesday morning when USF’s mobile alert system not only sent text messages but also flashed on screens across campus to warn of two armed suspects fleeing west of campus.

The Tampa Police Department, which forwarded information to University Police (UP), stated two masked suspects robbed a gas station on Fowler and North 22nd Street — a mile away from campus.

At approximately 9:45 a.m., UP advised students to use caution and report any suspicious activity. Then, a little before noon, students were informed that suspicious activity had yet to occur on campus, but still recommended caution.

Students were sent a final text around 5 p.m. stating there had been no new developments in the situation, on campus or off.