Students concerned about safety around campus

Students who live near Fresno State have reportedly been dealing with car break-ins, stalking and even homicide.

Fresno State is a relatively safe campus. It has its own police department in addition to campus security. Statistics from 2019 indicate roughly two students per 1000 experience safety-related incidents.

Students living west of Fresno State have experienced everything from cars being broken into, theft and a homicide investigation across the street from campus.

“I feel safe here, but not completely safe,” said Christian Aguirre, a construction management major. “I recently experienced my car getting broken into here, so that changed my perspective on the safety levels here at Fresno State and how I view the neighborhood generally.”

Aguirre is not the only student who views the neighborhood differently. Mary Davis feels safe during the day but is always on guard.

“When I have to walk at night or when I know I have to walk by myself, I feel a little bit more as though I have to walk with caution and have something to be afraid of,” Davis said.

Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni said he understands students’ concerns following a homicide in March.

“It makes you concerned for the safety, for me personally, of the students, especially individuals that live on this side, the west side of campus because you are walking to and from school right down that street and you’re here trying to get your education,” Zanoni said.