Marquette Students Heighten Safety Amid Assault Suspect Search

Campus community on alert as police continue search for armed robbery and sexual assault suspect.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:18pm

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Marquette University students are taking extra precautions and changing their daily routines following an armed robbery and sexual assault that occurred on campus early Wednesday morning. The suspect, described as a Black man around 20 to 30 years old, approached a student, displayed a weapon, sexually assaulted her, and stole her property. The student was taken to the hospital, and the suspect fled on foot. Marquette police have increased security measures, including adding new surveillance cameras in the area, as the search for the suspect continues.

Why it matters

The incident has created an unsettling feeling among the Marquette student body, as they are now more vigilant about their safety, even though similar crimes have occurred in the broader Milwaukee area. The attack serves as a wake-up call for the campus community to be extra cautious, especially during evening hours.

The details

According to the report, the armed suspect approached the student, displayed a weapon, sexually assaulted her, and forced her to turn over her property. The student was taken to the hospital, and the suspect fled on foot heading northbound on 14th Street. He is described as around 6 feet tall, with a slim build and Black braided hair, wearing a dark beige hoodie, light colored pants, white shoes, a blue hospital mask, and a black backpack.

  • The incident occurred early Wednesday morning.

The players

Marquette University Police Department

The campus police department that is investigating the incident and has increased security measures, including adding new surveillance cameras in the area.

Annie Leinenweber

A Marquette student who says the incident has served as a wake-up call for the campus community, prompting her friend group to ensure no one walks alone, especially during evening hours.

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What they’re saying

“It's definitely a wake-up call.”

— Annie Leinenweber, Marquette student

“We hear about them in other schools and even just in downtown Milwaukee, but the fact that it happens on campus is just like a creepy feeling.”

— Annie Leinenweber, Marquette student

What’s next

Police continue their search for the suspect involved in the Wednesday morning attack. Students are being encouraged to take advantage of university resources, including Marquette University Police Department's free transportation services.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of campus safety and the need for students to be vigilant, especially in the wake of such a disturbing event. The increased security measures and student awareness are crucial steps in ensuring the Marquette community's well-being.