An investigation is underway at Villanova University after a Student reported being raped by an Uber driver inside a student residence on campus, school officials said.
The university community was notified of the incident Friday through an alert issued by David Tedjeske, the university’s director of public safety and police chief. He said a student came forward with the allegation earlier in the day and told school officials she was was attacked during the night on September 13-14, NBC Philadelphia reported.
After being out that night, the student said she got an Uber back to The Commons residence hall complex – a dormitory nestled on Lancaster Avenue amidst fraternities and sororities as well as other houses. Once he dropped her off, the driver followed her into the building and raped her, the student claims.
Villanova authorities could to quickly identify the driverwho has been suspended from campus while officers continue to investigate the alleged rape, according to Tedjeske’s warning.
In a statement to CBS News Philadelphia, Uber said it was cooperate with the investigation.
“Sexual assault is a devastating crime that has no place in our society,” the ride-sharing company said. “We are appalled by what has been described and banned the driver as soon as this was reported to us. We will assist law enforcement as much as we can.”
Tedjeske concluded his warning by urging students who may have experienced a similar crime to take advantage all resources on campusincluding Public Safety’s 24/7 phone line. He added that the school partners with the Delaware County Victim Assistance Center, which is also available to help students in need.