Metro News Release

For immediate release: October 13, 2011

Metro Transit Police increase patrols in wake of robberies in Suitland Metro garage


To report information, call Transit Police at (202) 962-2121

The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) is investigating a series of armed robberies in the parking garage at Suitland station. In each case, a man with a black handgun approached riders in the Suitland parking garage, demanded property and fled from the garage on foot.

  • September 27, 2011: Armed robbery at approximately 6:37 pm - Unknown level of the parking garage
  • September 30, 2011: Armed robbery at approximately 5:15 pm - Level 2 of the parking garage
  • October 9, 2011: Armed robbery at approximately 6:10 pm - Level 2 of the parking garage
  • October 10, 2011: Armed robbery at approximately 8:30 pm - Level 1 of the parking garage
  • October 13, 2011: Attempted armed robbery at approximately 8:35 am - Level 2 of the parking garage

No one was injured in any of the incidents.

MTPD is seeking assistance from the public and encourages anyone who witnessed or has information related to the incidents to please call Metro Transit at (202) 962-2121. The suspect is described as an African American male, dark complexion, 5' 6", 20-25 years of age with black dreadlocks and a baseball cap.

Crime on Metro, including crimes committed in Metro parking facilities has decreased in the first six months of 2011 compared with 2010, with robberies falling from 540 to 449 in the January to June period.

To enhance the security of Metro customers, Metro Transit Police have increased patrols and continue to work with local police agencies. The Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) provides supplemental patrols of parking lots, stations and bus bays in Suitland and other stations in the county. MTPD and PGPD have jointly conducted multiple high-visibility patrols in all Metrorail stations in Prince George’s County this year and PGPD has received SmarTrip cards to allow officers access to Metro parking facilities.

MTPD emphasizes the importance of remaining aware and alert at all times, and protecting personal property while traveling throughout the Metro system, and offers the following tips:

  • Always be alert of your surroundings and the people around you.
  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Have your keys in hand as you approach your car.
  • Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed.
  • Report any suspicious or illegal activity to a Metro employee or call the Metro Transit Police at 202-962-2121.

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News release issued at 4:07 pm, October 13, 2011.