A student at the University of California, Santa Barbara reported that she was violently raped and strangled following a class reunion party last month. Her parents, believing they might know who the attacker is, are urging this person to come forward.
So far, police have not made any arrests in this alarming case, which has left the student body and faculty shocked and angry. According to the victim’s family, the assault took place in her dormitory.
The victim’s parents are convinced that some of her freshman classmates may have information regarding the incident, and they are asking them to share what they know before summer classes commence. “We believe there are others who know more about our daughter’s rape and strangulation and would feel comfortable coming forward anonymously before leaving Santa Barbara after this week’s finals,” they stated.
Attorney Tyrone Maho, representing the family, mentioned that crucial evidence might be lost if students leave the campus soon. “Time is of the essence,” he emphasized. “If someone has photos, videos, or information, it’s really important to contact the police now.”
Concern remains high, especially since no arrests have been made. Students have voiced unease as the investigation’s outcomes remain undisclosed. The alleged incident occurred on May 9 after the victim met the suspect at the Sigma Pi fraternity in Isla Vista, a nearby college area.
Reports state that the victim left the party with the suspect around 10 p.m. and the attacker was spotted at the Tropicana Gardens dormitory between 10:36 and 11:05 p.m., where the assault allegedly took place, according to Maho.
The victim dialed 911 right after the incident. Her family is now requesting that outside law enforcement assist the University Police in their investigation, expressing doubts about their capacity to handle the case effectively.
The family has also engaged a private investigator, motivated by worries over potential mishandling of the case, especially in light of another unresolved incident—the mysterious death of a UCSB freshman last year. This student, Elizabeth “Liz” Hummel, tragically died after falling from a third-floor passageway at the San Rafael Residence Hall.
University spokesperson Kiki Reyes mentioned that any crimes on campus are comprehensively investigated by certified officers from the University of California Police Department. She added that federal regulations and university policies have restricted them from discussing specifics related to the rape case since May, but emphasized that the campus offers robust support systems for survivors of sexual assault.
“UCPD has been in direct contact with the survivor’s family since the early stages of the investigation,” Reyes clarified, noting that this matter is currently under active investigation.
