*** UPDATE 2 p.m. July 10 ***
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Penn State University Police have uncovered additional details about this case in the course of their investigation. The alleged victim, a former student, was interviewed in the late morning on July 10 and provided specific details about the incident, which was initially reported to police by her friends.
Investigators have learned that the incident occurred on the west sidewalk of Atherton Street near the IST Building, and not adjacent to the Nittany Lion Shrine as initially reported. The victim, who was on her cell phone at the time of the reported incident, said the suspect attempted to grab her arm but that she was never pulled away from the sidewalk. She got away from the suspect and ran north along Atherton Street, where she reunited with her friends.
University Police continue to investigate the incident and are reviewing any surveillance video that may have captured evidence. Anyone who may have additional information is encouraged to contact police at 814-863-1111.
*** END UPDATE ***
An attempted assault and stalking was reported to University Police on the University Park campus at 1:16 a.m. on July 10. The reported attempted assault occurred at about 1:01 a.m. on July 10, at the intersection of Curtin and Burrowes roads in the area of the Nittany Lion Shrine.
The victim, who is anonymous, reported an unknown white male in his 30s grabbed her from behind and attempted to pull her into the wooded area behind the Lion Shrine. Officers immediately searched the area and were unable to locate him.
University Police have shared the following safety tips:
- Use the buddy system and watch out for each other.
- Have your keys/ID card ready when walking to your vehicle, residence or office otherwise keep your hands free and not overloaded.
- Trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe, get to a safe place and call for help.
- Document stalking behaviors, even if you are unsure about reporting to the police.
- If you feel you are being followed, cross the street, yell, run and look for a well-lit area or occupied building.
- Make sure you have your cell phone and it is fully charged before going out.
- Stay with a group and avoid deserted areas.
- Tell someone you trust your destination and planned time of return.
It can be assumed that conditions that continue to exist that may pose a threat to members and guests of the University community. It is the duty of the administration to warn of possible "dangerous conditions" on or near the campus, and at affiliate organizations off campus; an "affirmative duty" exists to warn persons associated to the University of possible peril at the hands at some third party or parties.
Those with questions or more information can contact Penn State University Police at 814-863-1111 or visit in person at 26 Eisenhower Parking Deck on the University Park campus.