Western Alert: Armed robbery, shooting reported near Western

The Bellingham Herald is reporting an armed robbery that ended with a female victim possibly shot near the trail system off South College Way and Bill McDonald Parkway near Buchanan Towers about 4 p.m. Monday.

The robbery occurred on a trail near 23rd Street and Douglas Avenue. A helicopter was circling the area, and police had called in a search dog. A suspect is not in custody.

Police were moving units into position just after 4 p.m., minutes after the robbery was reported.

The woman reportedly was struck in the head but was conscious and talking. It was unclear if she was shot, grazed or just struck in the head with the gun. Emergency crews on the scene said her injuries were not fatal.

Western officials are urging caution while traveling in or near south campus.