MU dorm attack now classified as sexual assault

On Tuesday the University of Missouri police said an attack inside a dorm over the weekend is now classified as a sexual assault. Investigators have identified the two suspects, but they are not releasing their names. No arrests have been made.

The incident happened early Sunday morning in Laws Hall. Officers said two men entered a student’s unlocked room and sexually assaulted her. The student grabbed her phone to call for help, and the two men fled the scene.

Because every residential hall requires key card access, it is unclear how the suspects got inside. Capt. Brian Weimer said they are reviewing security footage from the building to identify the men.

The latest attack follows two sexual assaults on campus just in the last five months, including one in Laws Hall in late September.

Students living in the hall said the situation is scary, but they are not surprised. Mikaela Ganga lives in the neighboring residential hall and said a similar incident happened to her last month.

“I’m really good about locking my doors and not letting anyone into the building that I don’t know,” Ganga said. “I feel like I take the precautions, but I’m not the only person living there.”

Students in the building said it is very easy for someone to gain access. They see people without key cards simply follow someone who does.

The suspect accused of the assault is described as white, about 6′ tall, with short, dark hair. The second suspect is described as white, about 5′ 7″ tall, with very short, dirty blonde hair and skinny build.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 573-875-TIPS.