The University of Houston community continues to grapple with fear and frustration following a string of violent incidents on or near campus, including two attacks in the Welcome Center Student Parking Garage.
Students like Amy and Angelina, who were interviewed by KPRC 2, are voicing their concerns and calling for immediate action to improve campus safety.
Three Incidents in One Week
The most alarming of the incidents occurred last Friday evening when a student was sexually assaulted at knifepoint inside her car in the Welcome Center Garage. The suspect forced his way into the vehicle after brandishing a knife. Earlier in the week, on Wednesday, another student was assaulted and robbed of their scooter while waiting for the elevator in the same garage. Additionally, on Tuesday, a person was attacked and robbed at the UH South-University Oaks Metro Rail platform.
Authorities have since arrested a suspect believed to be connected to the sexual assault case, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Students Speak Out
Amy, a UH student who takes night classes, described how unsafe she feels walking on campus after dark.
“I really feel on edge, especially at night,” she said. “There are secluded paths, poor lighting, and no visible security presence. I always carry self-defense tools, but it’s a sad reality.”
Angelina, another student, echoed similar concerns, adding that the recent incidents have significantly changed her routine.
“I try to leave campus before sunset now, but sometimes I have to stay late. If that happens, I ask my mom to pick me up. It’s upsetting because campus should feel like a second home,” she said.
Both students expressed frustration over the lack of security, particularly in parking garages where students pay high fees for permits. “For the $250 or more we pay each semester, you’d expect patrols or at least a security guard at every garage exit,” Angelina noted. “Instead, it feels like anyone can come and go without oversight.”
Students Demand Changes
When asked what they would change, both Amy and Angelina emphasized the need for stronger security measures. Suggestions included:
- 24/7 security patrols, particularly in parking garages.
- Improved lighting in secluded areas and pathways.
- Increased accountability for security staff to ensure they are actively monitoring and not distracted.
- Restricted access to campus with checks at key entrances.
Angelina also suggested that the university take additional steps to verify who enters campus.
“Anybody can come onto campus right now, and that’s a problem. There should be checks at entrances to make it harder for non-students to roam freely,” she said.
Campus Police Respond
The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) is working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies to investigate the incidents. While additional patrols have been implemented, students remain skeptical about their effectiveness. Reports of inattentive security staff have further fueled concerns.
Angelina mentioned a TikTok video she came across, where a student claimed that a security guard was more focused on their phone than on monitoring the area. “We need guards who are actually watching out for us, not distracted by other things,” she said.
A Message to the Administration
When asked what message she would give to UH President Renu Khator, Amy urged the administration to prioritize safety.
“Students can’t focus on their education if they don’t feel safe. Safety needs to come first,” she said.
Angelina added, “This is a beautiful campus, but it’s not worth much if we don’t feel safe here. We dedicate so much time and money to this university. They should invest in making it safer for us.”
Moving Forward
As investigations continue, UH students hope these incidents will lead to meaningful changes in campus security policies. Until then, many students are altering their routines, relying on friends and family for safety, and advocating for action.
The University of Houston Police Department encourages anyone with information about these incidents to contact them directly. Students are also reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
