An armed fugitive who is accused of killing a man while escaping and sought for the shooting death of a police officer is at large on or near the campus of a major university during the first day of class.

Tod Burke, a former police officer who is a professor of criminal justice at Radford University, discussed how police, and the general public, could best react to the nightmare scenario they face.

Police response

• Set up a perimeter to contain the suspect.
• Investigate whether the suspect could have an accomplice looking to help him escape.
• Despite the flurry of reports coming in, do not ignore seemingly less important calls about car alarms, barking dogs or broken windows. Such tips might lead to a capture.
• Be wary that the subject “may want to go out in a blaze of glory” but do not rule out a surrender. “I think police are so well trained today it’s not like they’re going to just open fire if he comes out with his hands up, unless he does something that may provoke the police,” Burke said
• When possible, evacuate people from areas where the suspect could be, to prevent a hostage situation from emerging.
• If a hostage situation does emerge, maintain contact with the suspect. A hostage situation contained to a building is easier to handle than one in which the fugitive and hostage are traveling in a car.

Public response

• Report suspicious or unusual activities.
• Do not open the door if someone knocks unexpectedly.
• If at home, close and lock doors and windows, including any garage doors.
• If driving, stay in the middle lane or as far from the curb as possible, to make a carjacking less likely.
• Be especially wary if going to an ATM. The fugitive may be looking for a hostage or money to help his escape.
• Students should be extra cautious entering their dorm areas and not hold open the door for anyone they do not know.