Crime & Safety
Normal, IL Campus Alert Today: Sexual Assault Reported at ISU
Normal, IL – Illinois State University police issued a campus crime advisory Monday, Oct. 26, after a student reported being sexually assaulted by an unknown masked attacker inside Watterson Towers, r
By Tessa Morgan · 2026-10-26T17:42:22.760Z
Normal, IL – Illinois State University police issued a campus crime advisory Monday, Oct. 26, after a student reported being sexually assaulted by an unknown masked attacker inside Watterson Towers, raising safety concerns across the university community.
According to the Illinois State University Police Department , officers responded to Watterson Towers at approximately 2:30 a.m. Monday after receiving a report of a sexual assault that allegedly occurred around 1 a.m. in a lower level service area.
The student reported being surprised by an unknown attacker wearing a black ski mask and an eye covering.
Police said the student fought back, broke free and contacted authorities with assistance from Housing Staff.
Police Investigating Reported Campus Attack University police confirmed that an active investigation began immediately after the report.
Authorities have not released the attacker's identity or announced an arrest.
Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact Illinois State University Police at 309 438 8631.
The department said additional details may become available as the investigation continues.
University Issues Campus Safety Reminder Following the report, university officials encouraged students and staff to remain aware of their surroundings, use building security features and avoid traveling alone when possible.
Students can request walking escorts through Redbird Safe Walk at 309 438 WALK 9255 or through the Safe Redbirds app.
The university also emphasized that responsibility for sexual assault rests entirely with the perpetrator.
Confidential support is available through the Stepping Stones Rape Crisis Center at 309 556 7000 and Student Counseling Services at 309 438 3655.
The advisory was issued under federal campus safety notification requirements.
Police continue investigating the reported incident and encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward.