A female University student reported that she was assaulted near University Hall early Friday morning.
A University Police report circulated to students via e-mail explained that the victim was walking near University Hall around 1:50 a.m. Friday morning "when an unidentified male suspect grabbed her from behind, knocking her to the ground and striking her in the face."
The suspect reportedly fled in an unknown direction. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt at the time of the assault.
Sgt. Melissa Fielding, who was handling questions about the incident, could not be reached for comment yesterday.
The e-mail also provided students with a list of safety reminders. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the Student Escort Service, avoid walking alone and use well-lighted pathways.
The e-mail was sent out by Pat Lampkin, vice president for student affairs, at the request of the University Police Department.
"We want to make sure that students are on the alert," Lampkin said.
The incident raises concerns about safety at University Hall, where many students park their vehicles, and across Grounds in general.
"Obviously we are concerned with safety on Grounds at all times," said Leonard Sandridge, executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Although it is impossible to guarantee safety at all times, University officials try to promote safety by patrolling Grounds frequently and encouraging students to make use of lighted walkways, Sandridge said.
The University uses human and technological resources such as video surveillance cameras and lighting to promote safety, yet it is impossible to keep all students safe at all times.
One plan designed to improve student safety is a bridge that will provide a walkway from the Lambeth Colonnades to University Hall. The walkway would pass through the Lambeth Field area and across Emmett Street, Sandridge said.
Use of the bridge will be restricted to pedestrians and bikers and will offer a safer alternative for students who need to travel from the University Hall parking lot to areas in the vicinity of Rugby Road.
"There's only so much the University can do to ensure safety," said Ellie Troland, chairwoman of Student Council's safety concerns committee. "They can't control every person in Charlottesville, but what they can do is increase lighting and encourage students to have people with them when walking"
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