North Central teacher mugged

Naperville police are investigating the armed robbery of a North Central College instructor near the college campus.

The instructor was walking alone near School and Center streets about 7:19 p.m. Saturday when he was confronted by a man with a handgun, according to police.

The suspect struck the instructor across the face and took his backpack. However, the instructor did not sustain any injuries.

Neighbors who witnessed the incident chased the suspect until he dropped the backpack, according to Cmdr. Mike Anders. The neighbors were not students at the college.

The suspect fled on foot but was described as a black male, about 6 feet tall wearing a charcoal gray jacket over a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt.

Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest. Call (630) 420-6006 with information. Callers may remain anonymous.

Anders said the incident should heighten awareness of students at the school. "It's still a safe campus, a safe neighborhood ... but students need to take a certain measure of heightened awareness, especially during the evening hours," Anders said.

Police do not believe the robbery is connected to an armed robbery at Key Wester restaurant on Naperville's west side early Sunday morning.