IUPD still searching for a suspect in assault case

The IU Police Department is still looking for the man they believe is responsible for attacking three students early Saturday morning.

IUPD Capt. Jerry Minger said there is no specific person of interest, but a witness – who saw the suspect fleeing – has come forward and put together a composite sketch. Minger said that sketch and the one released to the public Saturday are similar.

Investigators will reinterview victims and witnesses throughout the week.

Minger said IUPD will also check with the IU Credit Union, 510 E. 17th St., to see if any of the ATM cameras picked up any images.

“We’re guardedly optimistic about anything,” he said.

Minger said the ATM cameras have limited distance and are aimed at people using the machines, but investigators are still going to check.

Three students were assaulted with a sharp-edged weapon at about 12:30 a.m Saturday as they walked on 17th Street near Woodlawn Avenue toward their residence halls, police said.

A male victim received a cut to his neck and was transported to the Bloomington Hospital. He received 19 stitches and was released from the hospital at about 4:15 a.m.

The names of the victims aren’t being released for safety reasons because the motive and attacker are unknown, Minger said.

A cautionary e-mail and text message were sent to students at 5 a.m. Saturday, warning them about the situation. IU spokesman Larry MacIntyre said letting students know about the problem and telling them to be careful is one of the “most important” things the University can do at this time.

“That and trying to help catch this person is about all we can do,” he said. “We’ve certainly made everyone aware of the situation, and everyone should be careful.”

The suspect was described as an 18- to 20-year-old slim, white male, between 5 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 2 inches tall. He was described as wearing jeans, a yellow T-shirt and a white hooded sweatshirt at the time of the incident.

If anyone has information about the identity of the suspect or regarding this incident, IUPD asks that they call 855-4111 and ask to speak to an investigator.