Armed robberies at White River State Park

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Police are investigating after two armed robberies were reported at the White River State Park.

Indiana State Police are investigating the two incidents – one reported on Feb. 13 and the second Friday afternoon.

On Feb. 13, shortly before 9 p.m., a victim reported a suspect wearing a black coat with red stripes and jeans held a suspected gun to his back and asked for money, police say.

The suspect in that incident ran toward the zoo, not injuring the victim.

In a second incident Friday afternoon, officers responded to the report of a robbery with a gun on a trail behind the Indianapolis Zoo.

The victim, an IUPUI student, was jogging and was approached by two Hispanic males.

One suspect pointed a gun at the victim and demanding his wallet. The suspects ran eastbound and struck the victim with a piece of wood.

The victim suffered minor injuries.

Police have provided the following safety tips below:

• Go with your instincts, but be realistic about your ability to fight off someone.
• Your instinct may be to run, scream, kick, hit or bite.
• If you decide to respond, be sure you do so with full commitment of your effort.
• Try to remember as many details as possible.
• Alert police as soon as possible.
• Your goal should be to escape safely and survive.