The University of Iowa issued a Hawk Alert to the community around 6 a.m. Sept. 23 about an assault in Mayflower Residence Hall.

According to a release, when police arrived at the scene at 4:36 a.m., the suspect was still on the scene but fled. After chasing him on foot and checking the area with K9 assistance, the police were unable to locate him.

The alert, which can be delivered through text, email, or a phone call, said the suspect is a “slim black male in his 20s, 5-3, buzz cut, wearing burgundy shirt, jeans, black shoes.”

The UI police are investigating the incident, and more information will be shared when it becomes available. If anyone has additional information, call the UI police at 319-335-5022.

UPDATE — 8:11 p.m.

The UI Public Safety Department issued a crime alert in an email to let the UI community know the UI police are seeking a person of interest in connection with the Mayflower assault.

The incident is now being investigated as an attempted sexual assault.

“Indications are the assault occurred after the suspect approached the victim downtown and offered to escort the victim home,” the email said.

The email reminds people that the perpetrator is the only person responsible for sexual misconduct.

It is a violation of university policy to engage in sexual activities without the other person’s consent, according to the email. A student or employee who violates policy “faces sanctions up to and including expulsion or termination.”