The intersection of Priest Drive and Baseline Road isn't that far from ASU.
The intersection of Mill and Southern avenues is even closer.
So why ASU students shouldn't worry about recent sexual assaults, robberies and killings linked to the proclaimed "Baseline Killer" is a puzzle, when two crimes allegedly committed by this person occurred so close to the Tempe campus.
The Baseline Killer, who has made recent headlines across the Valley, was linked to a robber that occurred Sept. 28, 2005 at 1424 W. Baseline Road, and a homicide on Sept. 8, 2005, at 3730 S. Mill Ave.
But don't worry. Why? Because Tempe Police said so.
Tempe Police spokesman Sgt. Dan Masters said ASU students don't need to be particularly alarmed.
Though we appreciate Masters' recommendation to be cautious, we here at The State Press are still worried.
These incidents hit home with us, despite the fact they occurred more than six months ago.
These are crazy times we are living in, and we want our fellow Sun Devils to stay safe.
So that is why we want to urge you to keep the following things in mind when you're going out:
1. Don't go anywhere alone. Police have reported that the "Baseline Killer" often makes contact with his victims before he attacks. He tries to lead his victim off busy streets or out of crowded rooms to get them alone. So be wary of this. Take a buddy with you wherever you go, particularly at night or in the early morning.
2. Don't talk to strangers. Okay, we know we sound like your mother when you were five, but this is serious. You can still talk to that cute guy at the bar, but be careful who you talk to in a deserted ally.
3. Keep your eyes open for suspicious activity. Check out the suspect's mug - you can find it on almost any news or police Web site - and watch out for him. It could not only save your life, but the lives of countless future victims.
4. Join a group like the Guardian Angels. This group of residents has taken to the streets to look out for the suspect and to protect local residents. They are taking volunteers who can go out and walk the streets with them, so if you have any spare time, this is a great way to do your part.
So students, be careful. Though it's unlikely, ASU students and the campus itself are not immune to violence and crime. We want to see all our Sun Devils back here for the fall semester.
