ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. — Police in Gainesville say Jared Williams and Kaetlyn Smith are now behind bars after a crime spree that started at the University of Florida.
According to police, two students were walking at night when they were approached by a man with a gun.
They say the students took off running and called police.
Shortly after the university sent out emergency text alerts, saying an armed suspect was spotted in the Matherly area of campus.
“It's pretty scary to have something like that happen on campus especially close to the library where people are studying for finals,” said student Alex Higgins.
The armed man wasn’t found right away, an hour later police got a tip about an armed robbery off campus.
This time, police were able to spot the car and follow it through UF's campus where it crashed.
Smith was taken into custody immediately, but Williams ran off. Police say he was caught within an hour.
“So everyone needs to be aware of their surroundings,” said student Claire Rice.
Jacksonville University, Florida State College of Jacksonville, Edward Waters College and the University of North Florida all have similar alert systems and will send out emergency texts or emails during emergencies.
Smith was charged with aggravated assault and armed robbery and resisting an officer. Williams was also charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault and possessing a weapon or ammo as a convicted felon.
UF Alert Subject is in custody, we are clearing the call. Normal activity can resume.
— UF Alert (@UFAlert) April 23, 2015
UF Alert part 2. All dark clothing. Tank top with dark pants, black banana white lettering on face. Call 352-392-1111 with info.
— UF Alert (@UFAlert) April 23, 2015
UF Alert Part 1 of 2 Armed subject spotted in Matherly area. No direction of travel. Black male with hand gun
— UF Alert (@UFAlert) April 23, 2015
WJAX
