Amy Poppinga

The University Police Department is continuing its investigation of related assaults on two female students that both included “physical contact of a sexual nature,” according to university officials.

The first incident happened on March 29 shortly after midnight on the south side of the library. The second incident occurred early Wednesday, April 7, also shortly after midnight, in the parking lot east of the Young and Caldwell residence halls. Both times the assailant snuck up on the victims and was armed with a knife, according to Bob Otterson, executive assistant to the president.

The assailant is described as an African-American male of slender build, 5-foot-8 inches to 5-foot-10 inches in height. He was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt with a dark bandana covering part of his face, according to officers working on the investigation.

The SDSUPD is currently working through 35 to 40 tips and leads, many that have come from students. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the SDSUPD at 688-5117 or the Brookings Police Department at 692-2113.

The Collegian will continue to provide updates throughout the day.