HOUSTON – The University of Houston Police Department is investigating after they say a student was sexually assaulted at knifepoint in a parking garage Friday.
According to a security alert sent out by the university, the incident happened around 5:50 p.m. Friday on the second floor of the Welcome Center Student Parking Garage.
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The alert says the student was approached by an unknown man who brandished a knife and forced his way into her vehicle along with her.
The suspect threatened the student with the knife if she attempted to contact police. The alert says the student was then forcibly sexually assaulted by the suspect.
The suspect is described as a black male with a crew cut hairstyle. He also reportedly has a heavy build and was wearing a black sweatshirt and dark-colored pants.
This is the second incident this week in the same parking garage. On Wednesday, the university sent out an alert that a student was robbed in the parking garage.
In that incident, a student was waiting for the elevator on the first floor when a male suspect approached. The suspect struck the student in the face, causing him to fall to the ground.
The alert said the victim believed the suspect was after his scooter and he did not resist and handed it over. The suspect then took the scooter and fled in an unknown direction.
Anyone with any information is urged to call the University of Houston Police Department.
The University of Houston provided the following statement on the incidents:
The University of Houston is deeply concerned about the recent crimes that have taken place on our campus this week. These despicable acts, including the assaults and robbery of two individuals and an aggravated sexual assault, are horrific and we are actively investigating. Our thoughts are with the victims, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety, support and the well-being of our entire UH community.
UH Police Department is aggressively pursuing all leads and is actively coordinating with the Houston Police Department, METRO Police and other law enforcement agencies to bring those responsible to justice. Additionally, UHPD is increasing its patrol and presence across campus to enhance security.
We understand the concerns of our community and want to reassure you that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. As these investigations continue, we urge all students, faculty and staff to remain vigilant. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you see something suspicious, say something — your awareness and the actions you take to report suspicious activity can make a difference. In an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately. For non-emergencies, contact UHPD at 713-743-3333.
UH has staff available 24/7 to support students in crisis, and we encourage our community to take an active role in crime prevention by reporting concerns promptly. UHPD patrols campus 24/7, 365 days a year, but safety is a shared responsibility. We must work together to keep our campus safe.
We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.