A female student was raped in a California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) parking lot in broad daylight Tuesday in what authorities believe was a targeted assault, according to school and police officials.
The incident happened at approximately 11 a.m. Tuesday in Lot B on campus, according to an advisory sent to students. The University Police Department is investigating the rape.
The suspect and victim first communicated through a social media application that had anonymity features, according to the school's advisory.
After meeting on campus, the suspect drove the victim to Lot B, where he raped her, officials said.
The suspect then drove the victim back to Craven Circle, where he let her go. The victim notified University police shortly after.
Margaret Chantung, Interim Associate Vice President for Communications, told NBC 7 officials believe this was a targeted sexual assault because of previous social media contact, though it is too early to say if the suspect would use the application to target other female students.
“We do want the students to be aware not to meet up with people they do not know off of a social media app,” Chantung said.
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The suspect is described as a 25- to 30-year-old man who was wearing his hair in a ponytail; his hair was shaved on the sides of his head. He was last seen wearing a dark blue t-shirt with red letters and dark gray pants.
Authorities do not have a sketch at the moment and do not know if there is any surveillance footage yet, as the investigation is in its preliminary phases.
“The investigation is just beginning,” Chantung said. “So evidence is very preliminary.”
The car involved in the incident was described as a four-door, older white Honda.
University police are asking anyone with information to call them at (760) 750-4567, or use the University’s SAFE hotline at (760) 750-SAFE. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
