Alerts Issued After Suspect Grabs Students at Loyola and Columbia

Incidents Occur at Two Chicago Institutions

A pair of Chicago institutions have issued alerts after students were sexually assaulted at both Loyola and Columbia this week.

Separate Incidents at Loyola University

According to school officials, three separate incidents occurred at Loyola University’s Lakeshore Campus on Monday night. A first incident occurred at the front entrance of Campion Hall at approximately 8:37 p.m., followed by a second incident on the north stairs of Mertz Hall approximately one minute later, and a third incident near the corner of Loyola and Sheridan three minutes later.

Description of Suspect

In all three incidents, a man wearing a gray and black puffy coat, khaki pants, white shoes, and carrying a brightly colored shopping bag grabbed students or touched their buttocks, according to the alert.

Response from School Officials

School officials issued an alert for students after the incidents, encouraging students to remain aware of their surroundings and providing a variety of services to students.

Separate Incident at Columbia College

A separate incident occurred near Columbia College on Tuesday at approximately 9:30 a.m. when a man walked up to a woman outside the Harold Washington Library and grabbed her, according to college officials.

Investigation and Link to Incidents

It is not known if the incidents at the two colleges are related. No identifying information about the suspect was released in the incident at Columbia.

Conclusion

The incidents at Loyola and Columbia have left students and staff on edge, and school officials are urging students to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity. The incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of campus safety and the need for vigilance in the face of potential threats.

FAQs

• Are the incidents at Loyola and Columbia related?
  • No, it is not known if the incidents are related.
• What is the description of the suspect?
  • A man wearing a gray and black puffy coat, khaki pants, white shoes, and carrying a brightly colored shopping bag.
• What services are being provided to students by school officials?
  • A variety of services are being provided to students, including awareness campaigns and support resources.