At 8:20 a.m. on Sunday, UTSA students received an alert.
“UTSAPD is investigating a sexual assault at University Oaks. Unknown male entered the apartment through an unlocked window. Check your campus email.”
At 8:28 a.m., students received a mass email with more details.
“The UTSA Department of Public Safety is providing this notice in compliance with the Timely Notice provision of the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act,” the email stated.
“On Sunday, October 6, 2024, at approximately 4:19 a.m. the UTSA police Department was notified of a sexual assault at the University Oaks Apartments. The survivor reported that the suspect was unknown to them. A male entered an apartment through an unlocked window and assaulted a female resident. The suspect fled the apartment and remains at large. Suspect is described as a stocky male, light complexion, wearing a grey t-shirt, dark shorts and backwards baseball cap. This matter is under investigation by the UTSA Police Department. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the UTSA Police Department at (210) 458-4242.”
The email concludes by listing off ways students can keep themselves and others safe.
“Ensure doors and windows at your residence are secured properly. Report suspicious behavior, even when you are not directly threatened. Report any suspicious activity to University Police immediately at 210-458-4911. Never attempt to engage persons involved in criminal activity.”
Immediately following the alerts, students began taking to apps like Reddit, YikYak and Instagram to share their thoughts.
“woke up this morning to an apparent assault happening at University Oaks and Phi Delta facing grape allegations!!!??? girlies pls stay safe this whole thing is insane,” a Reddit user posted.
“Yall saw that alert too right?? Like wtf is going on???” a YikYak user anonymously posted.
The following day, the UTSA Office of the President emailed a statement to UTSA students.
“Over the weekend, a deeply concerning incident occurred at University Oaks, managed by Campus Living Villages,” the email stated. “UTSA’s Police Department issued a notice regarding a sexual assault. As the investigation continues and we work to support the survivor, we are reaching out to our entire campus community to reaffirm our commitment to a zero-tolerance environment for sexual assault. If you need support or want to learn more about how to support others, we encourage you to explore the free resources available to you.”
The email continued by listing mental health support, safety resources, learning opportunities and events that students can read about for future reference. Additionally, the email detailed “bystander intervention.”
“Understanding bystander intervention is an important step in combatting sexual violence. Green Dot is a nationally recognized anti-violence initiative aimed at decreasing and preventing the occurrence of power-based personal violence.”
This is followed by a slew of sentences promoting a virtual event dedicated to combatting sexual violence and the safety of the UTSA community.
Residents of University Oaks, while appreciatve of UTSA’s communication, are disappointed with the lack of communication from management.
“My heart sank the moment I read the notification regarding U Oaks,” Madison Williams, a current resident, said. “I could only think about the victim and how she must be feeling. I still do. Knowing that the perpetrator is still out there unsettles me. Since the incident, I have purchased locks for our apartment windows as a precaution but am still fearful as U Oaks hasn’t given us any information.”
First-year resident Mia Olivo shared a similar sentiment.
“When I got the news about the incident, my stomach dropped,” she said. “I was supposed to feel safer living in this area, but now, even walking to class feels unsafe.”
“University Oaks only sent us a vague email days after the incident occurred, but I think UTSA handled it the best that they could.”
As this is an ongoing investigation, The Paisano will continue following along and updating students.