Teen accused of armed robberies at UF Health in custody, police say

Action News Jax has learned a 17-year-old suspect is in custody following two recent armed robberies in the parking lots of UF Health in Jacksonville.

The hospital confirmed a teenager was arrested in connection with two robberies that were recently reported in the parking lots.

In an alert sent to staff and students, UF Health said a nurse was robbed at gunpoint at the entrance to Parking Lot M on Jan. 19 at 3 a.m.

The suspect had been loitering by the entrance to the parking lot and robbed the victim as the victim walked to his or her car.

UF Health said the suspect was armed with a silver semi-automatic handgun and was last seen running on foot northbound on the UF Health Jacksonville Campus toward the University Plaza Apartments.

As a result, UF Heath security and JSO increased patrols in the area.

UF Health confirmed police captured the suspect this week. We are working to figure out how police tracked the suspect.

We are not naming the suspect or showing his or her mug shot because he or she is under 18.

Action News Jax ran a crime map and found that in the last four weeks there were 16 violent crimes reported within a half mile of the hospital.

UF Health is reminding staff and visitors to stay vigilant. They are advising people to stay in well-lit areas and, if possible, walk with others to their destination.

The UF Health Jacksonville Security Department offers a free escort service around campus before and after business hours, seven days a week. All students, faculty, staff and visitors may utilize this service by calling the UF Health Jacksonville Security Department at 904-244-4211.

Cox Media Group