The UNC Police Department is investigating multiple thefts of e-scooters, bikes, and e-bikes that have occurred throughout the month of October 2025. These thefts occurred at various locations across campus, including near residence halls and academic buildings. UNC Police continue to investigate the incidents. No suspect descriptions are available at this time.
UNC Police encourages the Carolina Community to adhere to the following safety tips:
- Invest in a U-lock: These are more difficult to cut than cable locks and should be used to secure the frame of your bike/e-bike to a fixed object.
- Add additional locks: Use a secondary lock for the wheels to ensure everything is secured.
- Choose well-lit areas: Always park your e-bike/e-scooter in well-lit, high-traffic areas to deter thieves.
- Park in “bike heavy” areas: these areas are less likely to be targeted by thieves as there are more eyes watching.
- Scooter owners are required to park their scooters in parking areas designated specifically for their vehicles.
- Consider installing a GPS tracker on your bike/e-bike/e-scooter. This can help locate it if it is stolen.
- Modify your bike/e-bike/e-scooter with unique features that make it easily identifiable, making it harder for thieves to sell it.
- If you notice suspicious individuals around bike racks, report them to UNC Police immediately.
Campus bike racks can be found at maps.unc.edu. Additionally, e-scooter and bicycle safety information can be found at carolinaready.unc.edu under the Take Action and Personal Safety sections.
All gas powered and motorized two-wheeled vehicles, including mopeds, motorbikes, and scooters are required to be registered for a permit to park in designated areas on campus. To operate and park on campus, vehicles must be registered with the NC DMV.
The UNC police Department is available 24 hours a day by calling 911 in an emergency or 919-682-8100 for non-emergency assistance. Officers are also available in person at the Public Safety Building located at 285 Manning Drive.
Most Alert Carolina Informational messages are sent to notify the campus community of situations that do not pose an immediate threat but may be of significant interest to campus.
For more information about Alert Carolina and updates on alerts, visit alertcarolina.unc.edu.