Increased Police Presence as Two Women Accosted Near University of Arizona
ICARO Media Group
In response to recent incidents of assault near the University of Arizona, authorities have amplified security measures and launched a search for a potential kidnapper. Campus police chief Chris Olson announced that additional patrols will be deployed in the community, while officers will be stationed at a distance to keep a watchful eye for the assailant.
The suspect, who has been linked to a dark blue, four-door car, possibly an early 2000s Toyota Camry or Corolla with a fading Arizona license plate, remains at large. Assistant police chief Chris Dennison from the Tucson Police Department stated that the suspect's vehicle may have a dented front bumper and tinted windows.
The most recent incident occurred on Monday around 6 p.m. MST, when a woman reported being groped near East 7th Street and North Vine Avenue, just south of the university campus. Tucson Police Department confirmed that the suspect description and circumstances bore similarities to two previous abduction attempts on December 6 and 7.
During the abduction attempt on December 7, a woman noticed she was being followed near East 8th Street and North Mountain Avenue. The male suspect parked his vehicle, approached her from behind, and grabbed her. However, she managed to escape by dropping to the ground and screaming, causing the suspect to flee back to his car and drive away.
Authorities suspect that the same individual may be responsible for a similar incident reported on December 6 near North Campbell Avenue and East 3rd Street, just east of the university campus. In this incident, a woman reported being followed by a man.
Officials are urging anyone with information related to these incidents or the suspect to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The increased police presence, both in the form of high visibility patrols and covert surveillance, aims to ensure the safety of the University of Arizona community and swiftly apprehend the suspect.
As the investigation continues, students, faculty, and residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, travel in groups, and report any suspicious activity to authorities.