Police have confirmed that seven suspects have been identified in connection to an alleged assault on two college students at Michigan State University's main library. The incident, which took place on Monday, is believed to have been motivated by bias against the victims' sexual orientation.

Michigan State University Police released a statement stating that the suspects targeted the victims potentially due to their sexual orientation. It was highlighted that none of the suspects were affiliated with the university. Once the investigation is complete, authorities will be requesting prosecutors to press charges against the suspects.

The university emphasized that crimes are never the fault of the victim. They encouraged anyone who believes they have been discriminated against or harassed to report the incident(s) to the MSU Office of Institutional Equity. Doug Monette, MSU's interim vice president and chief safety officer, and Vennie Gore, senior vice president for the school's student life and engagement department, addressed students and faculty in a separate statement, acknowledging the significance of the incident occurring during LGBTQ Pride Month.

According to Monette and Gore, the alleged altercation was not only based on the victims' sexual orientation but also their racial identities. They emphasized that discrimination or harassment targeting protected identities can have a significant impact and stated that everyone deserves to feel safe and respected on campus.

Michigan's Attorney General, Dana Nessel, noted that existing state law does not allow prosecutors to charge the suspects with a hate crime solely based on anti-LGBTQ bias. The law does not currently prohibit intimidation, harassment, threats, or harm based on an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Nessel emphasized the importance of passing proposed laws in the House and Senate that would include sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes.

Both Michigan State University and MSU Police have not provided further comments at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as new information arises.

In a time where inclusivity and safety on college campuses are paramount, this incident serves as a reminder of the need for comprehensive legislation to protect individuals from hate crimes based on their sexual orientation and gender identity.