BECKLEY, W.Va. — West Virginia University Institute of Technology is urging students and staff to take extra precautions after several recent vehicle break‑ins and an auto theft on campus.
University Police say the incidents occurred in parking areas along Church Street and near University Hall. One vehicle was stolen from the Church Street lot but has since been recovered. Investigators say suspects targeted both unlocked vehicles and cars with valuables visible inside, and in some cases forced entry into locked vehicles.
Campus officials are asking students to lock their vehicles, secure keys, hide bags and electronics, and park in well‑lit areas. UPD also recommends using alarms or steering‑wheel locks when possible.
Anyone who has been a victim or has information is asked to contact University Police at 304‑929‑COPS. Students and staff are also encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately and provide any details about suspect descriptions or direction of travel.
The investigation is ongoing.
