By Will Underhill
Woman escapes attacker in wooded area of campus.
A female student at Northwest Vista was the victim of an attempted sexual assault Feb. 28.
That afternoon, she was walking to her car parked near the boardwalk when the male suspect approached her, grabbed her from behind and led her into a wooded area.
The student was able to escape without injury.
The suspect is believed to be a Hispanic man, age 25 to 30, 5-foot-11, 180 pounds with short brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a ski mask, dark clothing and gloves at the time of the attack.
Above is an illustration of the suspect provided by the district department of public safety, based on the description given by the student.
Anyone who has come into contact with the described suspect or knows the identity of the suspect is encouraged to contact the district department of public safety immediately at 208-8099.
DPS also asks students to report any suspicious persons or activities.
DPS has issued a campus alert with all available information on the suspect at http://www.accd.edu/district/dps/seclinks/alerts.htm.
Northwest Vista also has alerted their students by handing out fliers and by PALS e-mail. They also are encouraging students to travel in groups or use the courtesy patrol offered by DPS.
“The best thing to do is to be aware of your surroundings and be vigilant,” Sgt. Ben Peña said.