Woman Sexually Assaulted in Howard U. Classroom

Suspect remains at large

Police are investigating an early morning sexual assault on Howard University's campus in Northwest D.C.

The assault was reported at 8 a.m. Monday in the 2600 block of 6th Street NW, inside of a classroom at Howard University. The woman was reportedly followed from a bus stop to the classroom, when she was approached from behind by a man who then sexually assaulted her.

The suspect is described as a black man with a dark complexion between 18 and 20 years old. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black and white shorts.

Women who spoke to News4's Megan McGrath said they were upset about the crime, especially given the time of day.

"I think that's terrible. I was here at eight in the morning yesterday, and I can't imagine that happening," one woman said.

Another said, "It's very scary. I work here every day. Just to know something can happen to me is shocking."

Howard University released the following statement regarding the incident late Monday evening:

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) with support from the Department of Public Safety are investigating a report of a sexual assault involving a female in a non-University sponsored program. The investigation into this troubling incident is ongoing and it is premature to provide additional details at this time.

Some students are upset the school took so long to alert students of the assault.

"I don't feel safe on campus, I'm not gonna lie," one student told News4.

The victim is not a student at the university, but was on campus to attend a program. The school has not released the name of the program in order to protect the victim's identity.

A spokesperson for the College for Success Foundation would not confirm or deny the victim was one of their students, but the building where the assault occurred was used by the foundation that day.

D.C. Police say the woman's sex assualt is not believed to be related to a July 4 death of a Howard University student, killed close to campus.

The July 4th homicide of Omar Sykes and the July 22nd sexual assault do not appear to be related. The Metropolitan Police Department recently met with the administration at Howard University to address safety. The Metropolitan Police Department has increased patrols in the area and is working closely with Howard University to address violent crime.

If you have any information on the incident or the man's identity, contact police at 202-727-9099.

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