By KRWG News
Las Cruces – NMSU Police are investigating a report of an early morning sexual assault that took place in Family Housing on the Las Cruces campus.
The crime occurred in the housing area on the south side of the campus around 1:55 am. Several witnesses saw the suspect leaving the residence, and one was able to chase him to his vehicle. The suspect was last seen on Union Avenue driving a newer model pickup truck that is possibly silver or charcoal grey in color, with large tires and chrome rims. The suspect was last seen wearing a dark jacket and dark pants, with what may be a wrestling-style mask over his face.
Due to the need to protect the victim as much as possible, additional details regarding her and the exact location of the crime are being withheld. She is receiving assistance at this time.
An alert to NMSU Las Cruces and NMSU Do a Ana Community College students and employees was sent. In addition, an e-mail has been sent to students and employees with the following information:
"NMSU Police received a 911 call around 1:55 am today (March 18, 2010) indicating a person had gained entry to a residence in South Campus Family Housing and sexually assaulted one of the residents. Officers are currently investigating.
The suspect fled the residence, but was seen by multiple witnesses. Based on their descriptions, police are looking for:
Hispanic male, approximately 5'8" in height, medium build, wearing dark jacket, dark pants, and a black and white mask (possibly a wrestling-style mask)
The suspect was seen leaving the area in a silver or charcoal grey pickup, newer model, with large off-road-style tires and chrome rims, headed west on Union Ave.
Residents are urged to take the following precautions:
Keep doors locked at all times
Keep windows closed when possible, and use locking devices to keep them from opening too far when they need to be opened
Be aware of your surroundings
If you observe suspicious activity, contact police immediately
Update your information in the NMSU Emergency Notification System to ensure you receive alerts in a timely manner (go to http://emergency.nmsu.edu)
Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact the NMSU Police Department as soon as possible at (575) 646-3311. NMSU Police are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect in this case."