Crime: Area sees series of muggings

Boston Police Department District 14 has issued a community alert following an assault and armed robbery on Sept. 1. According to a report filed by two victims, three males dressed in dark clothing assaulted them at Rogers Park, located near the end of Lake Street in Brighton.

"The victims reported being struck with fists in the face, and personal items and money were stolen," said David Estrada, spokesperson for District 14. One of the attackers also carried a handgun, according to the police report.

The assault, which occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m., did not involve anyone with Boston College affiliation, yet the proximity to BC's Brighton Campus has officials warning students to be careful.

Two other incidents that appear to be related to the Lake Street robbery occurred on the following two nights, each around midnight, on Dustin Street in Brighton and on Harvard Avenue in Brookline. Both incidents involved handguns and assault on the victims. All three incidents are under investigation.

"It appears to be a gang that has hit both Brookline and Brighton," said BC Police Department Chief Robert Morse. "The modus operandi were the same, and the descriptions were the same. This is clearly three young men who will be out there this weekend to prey on young people."

Officers warn students to practice safe habits when walking alone, especially at night, and to be wary of their surroundings at all times.

"Never travel alone, be alert always, and keep handbags close to your person," said Estrada. "Don't talk on your cell phone when walking, and avoid traveling at night. If you must walk at night, stay in a well-lighted zone and walk where there is traffic."

Estrada said the three incidents of assault and robbery were unusual.

"They seem to be isolated incidents," he said. "But once people get too comfortable in an environment, that's when they're susceptible to this type of thing."

Anyone with any information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact Boston Police Department District 14 at (617) 343-4260 or the BCPD at (617) 552-4440.