Crime & Safety
DeKalb, IL Police Investigate Sexual Assault Report at NIU
DeKalb, IL – Northern Illinois University issued a campus safety warning Tuesday following a reported sexual assault inside Gabel Hall, prompting an investigation and a request for information from st
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-13T18:24:23.809Z
DeKalb, IL – Northern Illinois University issued a campus safety warning Tuesday following a reported sexual assault inside Gabel Hall, prompting an investigation and a request for information from students, employees and the surrounding DeKalb community.
According to the Northern Illinois University Department of Police and Public Safety, the alleged incident occurred at approximately 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at Gabel Hall, located at 245 University Circle.
University police are investigating the report and have released a description of the suspect, who reportedly fled the area on foot.
Police Release Suspect Description
The suspect was described as a Hispanic male in his early 20s, approximately 6 feet, 5 inches tall, with brown curly hair.
Authorities said he was reportedly wearing a black T shirt and pants and carrying a blue backpack.
Following the alleged assault, the suspect reportedly fled northbound toward Lucinda Avenue.
Police have not released additional details about the circumstances of the reported assault or announced an arrest.
The university's safety notification also cautioned that information included in initial alerts may not have been fully investigated or confirmed when issued.
NIU Urges Students to Remain Alert
University officials are encouraging students, faculty and nearby residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious activity.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact NIU Police and Public Safety. Individuals facing immediate danger should call 911.
NIU also encourages students to use campus safety resources, including transportation assistance, safety programs and the NIU Safe app.
Information about reporting sexual violence and accessing support services is available through the university's official website.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced whether the suspect has been identified or located.