It happened around 12:45 p.m., officers said.
The suspect went up to the woman and threatened her with a knife and then tazed her, according to police.
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The suspect took off with her phone. Officials said the victim had a cut on her hands that required stitches.
The suspect is described as standing 6 feet tall with a thin to medium build. He was reportedly in his late 30s, clean-shaven, with short to medium hair. The victim told police the suspect was wearing a black sweatshirt with white lettering on the front and dark blue jeans.
Police said they do not believe he is a student.
University officials say they are not sure if this robbery is connected to a sexual assault that happened near campus on Nov. 30.
Neighbors in the area are rattled after hearing about the attack.
"Just the idea that the places that I go regularly where I generally feel safe walking," said Madeline James. "I wouldn't expect things like this to be happening."
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If you have any information related to this incident, please contact the Duke University Police Department at (919) 684-2444.
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