NEWS UPDATE: Two Arrested for Sexual Assault and Robbery near P.E. Building and WTTW

Two were arrested today, July 20 in relation to a female Northeastern student who said she was attacked, sexually assaulted and robbed on Tuesday evening July 17.

The two assailants are now in custody with Chicago police according to Public Relations Director Erika Krehbiel.

The female student was followed by the two young assailants between 13 and 15 years of age and tackled to the ground at 8:40 p.m. according to Director of Public Safety Jim Lyon. One of the assailants put her in a choke hold, fondled the victims left breast and made sexually explicit comments to her while the other assailant took her wallet.

Initially the incident was reported as having happened at 10:40 p.m. That was in error according to more recent updates by university officials.

"This type of incident has been very infrequent at Northeastern. However, I urge the entire University community to be extremely vigilant when walking alone, particularly late at night. Please report immediately any unusual or suspicious behavior to Public Safety," said Lyon.

Lyon said that the incident happened in a sparsely populated area between the Physical Education Building and Parking Lot J near the open space between the Physical Education Building and WTTW near a bench. Krehbiel described the area as having good lighting.

"Public Safety has increased patrols around campus. I would also like to remind the community that escort service is available by calling Public Safety," said Lyon in his crime alert.

University officials did not release the name of the alleged victim.