Northwestern Memorial warns staff after recent attacks - Chicago News and Weather | FOX 32 News

Northwestern Memorial warns staff to watch out after recent attacks

On the hospital campus Wednesday night, the Northwestern Police were out on patrol, keeping a watchful eye on an area that employees say is generally very safe.

But a doctor who was working here Sunday night left work for his four block walk home. He nearly made it to his Streeterville condo when he was jumped by a group of 15 to 20 teens and beaten in the head.

The 36 year-old attending physician was taken right back to work where he was treated and released. Police made no arrested in the attack, but it prompted Northwestern to email an alert to all employees letting them know what happened and offering safety tips.

"It was just an email from the security staff of Northwestern saying there was some trouble, violence around the neighborhood be aware of our surroundings when we leave, and gave us some precautions when we leave, like walk in groups and well lit areas, things like that," patient care technician John Ford said.

Northwestern nurse Alex Feifofer says she normally feels safe in the neighborhood.

"Usually when I work the times, it's still light out, there's a lot of people around, I'm usually not outside too late, so I wasn't too worried I guess," Feifofer said.

Respiratory therapist Renee Touchton generally feels safe, but now she says she will be keeping her eyes open.

"I'm not going outside alone and just being more aware of my surroundings, I understand some of the attacks are from the iPhone or trying to take a phone so I'm not using it outside," Touchton said.