Yesterday afternoon at about 1:30 pm, an NYU student was assaulted near the entrance to the fitness facility at 404 Lafayette. The assault, which came without warning, involved the student being struck several times in the back with an object, possibly a pen.
Emergency services were immediately called. Thankfully, the wounds were not serious; an EMS ambulance responded and evaluated the student; the student was cleared medically by the ambulance and was able to seek treatment on their own. Support services were offered to the student through Campus Safety and the Wellness Exchange, and we continue to be in touch.
Law enforcement also responded right away, and the police are
actively investigating the crime and seeking the assailant. The University was able to assist the investigation by providing video of the suspect, and we will continue to assist the investigation in any way we can.
The suspect is described as a man with a light complexion and medium build, standing around 5-foot-9, with his long hair pulled back in a ponytail, and a dark beard.
Campus Safety has stepped up the presence of officers and patrols in the vicinity of the incident, and all officers have been apprised of the assault and are on a heightened footing.
If any members of the community have any information about the identity of the suspect or were witnesses to the assault, we strongly urge you to come forward and be in contact with Campus Safety (212.998.2222) or the police (Crimestoppers: 800-577-TIPS).
The safety of our community is our foremost priority; the University is deeply concerned that one of our students was the subject of such an attack. Even when the injuries are not serious, we know that an incident such as this—sudden, senseless, on a street in broad daylight—can be stressful and troubling not just for the person assaulted, but for others in the community, as well, when they learn about it. I want to remind students of the round-the-clock availability of support from the professionals at the
Wellness Exchange (212.443.9999), who can assist you with any concerns you may have. And I want to remind employees of the availability of help through our
Employee Assistance Program.
As I noted, the police investigation is ongoing. We will keep you apprised of developments.
.png)
