Villanova University investigating race-related assault on campus

Sunday, November 13, 2016
VIDEO: Villanova attack
Villanova University officials and Radnor Township police are investigating after a black female student was allegedly assaulted by white males as they ran toward her yelling, "Trump, Trump, Trump!"

VILLANOVA, Pa. -- Villanova University officials and Radnor Township police are investigating after a black female student was allegedly assaulted by white males as they ran toward her yelling, "Trump, Trump, Trump!"

According to a university source, the incident took place Thursday evening as the student was walking through a SEPTA tunnel on campus.

There multiple white males allegedly ran toward her, shouting the name of president-elect Donald Trump.

One of the males forcefully knocked the student to the ground, causing her to hit her head, according to the source.

Her condition is unknown at this time.

After learning about the incident, school officials say they contacted Radnor police.

At this time, the identities of the female student or the males involved in the incident have not been released.

"The University finds this conduct deplorable and considers this racist behavior that runs completely counter to our values. Actions such as this will simply not be tolerated at Villanova," school officials said in a statement, adding, "Those found responsible for such reprehensible behavior will face serious consequences for their actions and will be disciplined appropriately."

The incident is being investigated by Radnor Township police and Villanova's Public Safety Department.

Villanova University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue released the following statement that reads in part:

"Two weeks ago, I shared my thoughts on the need for Villanova to practice what we preach. As I stated in the message, we need to embrace the challenge of creating an authentic community for all our members. Everyone brings value to Villanova and everyone must contribute to the process. Each community member must be both respectful and respected.

Over the past few days, I have been deeply disturbed by several reports of members of our community using our nation's political process as a justification for behaviors and language aimed to intimidate or humiliate other people. This type of behavior is not acceptable and will not be tolerated at Villanova. Anyone found to have engaged in such behavior will face serious consequences."