Police: UT-Tyler student attacked by three men

tyler — Law enforcement is looking for three young men who attacked a UT-Tyler student on campus late Thursday night.

At around 10:00 p.m., a UT Tyler student was assaulted while walking near the fountain in front of the Cowan Center. The victim said he observed 3 young black men, approximately late teens to early 20's, standing nearby. One of the black males asked him for a cigarette to which he replied he did not have any. At that point, the victim said that the men approached him and began striking him in his head with their fists. The victim states that he began running from the assailants and they stopped pursuing him. He then went to his house and notified university police.

The victim came to the police department to provide a statement. The investigating officer observed redness and slight swelling in the area around the victim's ear. At this time, the motive for the attack is unknown. The victim stated that he had no previous encounters with these men.

Officers were able to verify through video evidence that the victim was approached and pursued by 3 black men at the fountain in front of the Cowan Center.
Clothing description on the suspects are as follows:

(1) Gray pants with navy or black shirt, white or light colored tennis shoes
(2) Red pants, dark shirt or jacket with possible horizontal stripes, white tennis shoes
(3) Dark or black pants, dark shirt, white tennis shoes

The victim in this case did not seek medical attention and his injuries do not appear serious. Officers are continuing to search the area for the suspects.

Students, staff, and faculty are advised to be observant and aware of their surroundings. If possible, walk with a friend or in a group. Report any suspicious persons or activity immediately to the University Police Department by dialing (903) 566-7300 or by dialing 9-1-1.

Anyone with information concerning this crime, please contact University Police.

From UT-Tyler