Police seek information on University Avenue attacks

Police are investigating a pair of recent violent incidents against women walking on University Avenue near the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus.

MPD has supplied a sketch in connection to a July 2 attack in the 1700 block of University Avenue.

The cases may be connected and the UW Police Department and the Madison Police Department spent the weekend doing concentrated patrols in the area looking for more information on these crimes.

The first incident took place on the 400 block of Babcock Drive near University Avenue at approximately 3:41 a.m. on July 1.

A 22-year-old Madison woman had been out with friends, and was walking outbound on University Avenue. A man approached her and struck her in the neck. The blow knocked her down, and she believes she may have momentarily lost consciousness. Around the same time, a bicyclist arrived on the scene and scared away the assailant.

The suspect is described as male, 5 feet, 8 inches to 6 feet tall, with a medium build, deep voice.

The second incident, classified as an attempted sexual assault, took place at 3:44 a.m. on July 2 in the 1700 block of University Avenue. The victim was walking home when an unknown male came from behind and struck her in the head. The victim was able to fight the male off and he fled the area.

In the second incident, the suspect is described as male, possibly Hispanic, late 20s-early 30s, 5 feet, 9 inches to 5 feet, 11 inches tall, wearing a black/dark T-shirt and tan cargo shorts, with short hair but slightly spiked on top. Madison police have provided a sketch.

Police continue to urge members of the campus community to consider their own personal safety, especially while out at night. General tips include:

Never walk alone, particularly at night.
Carry a cell phone and dial 911 for help.
Campus and downtown are part of a growing city. Use your instincts and common sense as your first defense.
If you plan to drink, do so in moderation to avoid putting yourself in a position of increased risk.

Anyone with information can call Madison Area Crime Stoppers at (608) 266-6014. Callers can remain anonymous.

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