FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - On Tuesday, October 16, at 2:34 a.m., a University of Arkansas student reported to the University of Arkansas Police Department that she had been raped and robbed in Parking Lot 36 on the University campus.

The student told police that she parked in the lot, which is located at Douglas Street and Oakland Avenue, and started to walk to her residence. She heard someone running up behind her and saw a black male wearing all black clothing. The male did not say anything to her but pushed her down and pulled her to a grassy area on the east side of the lot where he committed the alleged sexual assault. The student reported that the male used a small handgun to threaten her.

After the assault, the perpetrator took the student's purse and ran across the lot and north on Oakland Avenue. The student ran to her residence where she contacted University Police. The suspect is described as a black male, taller than five feet five inches and wearing all black clothing. The handgun fit in the palm of his hand and is silver in color. The suspect remains at large. Citizens are encouraged to use caution and be alert when parking or walking on campus, especially after dark.

If anyone has seen a person who matches the description of this suspect, the police department requests your assistance in identifying him. If you have any information about this person or about what happened, please contact University Police Lieutenant Steve Meyer at 575-3204 or by e-mail at stevem@uark.edu. Confidential information may also be submitted using the e-mail feature on the University Police web page at http://www.uark.edu/~uapdinfo/. You do not have to give your name.

Everyone is encouraged to walk in pairs or in groups. As an alternative to walking alone, the Razorback Patrol Escort Service is available Sunday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to midnight, at 575-2222.

Police officers will provide escorts at other times as requested as well.