An Ames-area resident reported being struck in the head and sexually assaulted near the Campustown area early Sunday morning.

ISU Police Capt. Gene Deisinger said the exact location of the assault is not known, although it is believed to have taken place along Lincoln Way, west of Friley Hall, at approximately 1:15 a.m.

“The victim suffered injuries that did require medical attention. She reported being struck in the head,” Deisinger said.

“Those and other factors may be affecting her immediate memory.”

He said the woman, who does not have a known affiliation with Iowa State, received several injuries. Officials were not ready to disclose specific information about those injuries at this time, Deisinger said. Police believe no weapon was displayed or used in the attack.

“It’s believed the victim was [initially] confronted somewhere in the Campustown area near Lincoln Way,” Deisinger said.

“It does not appear at this time that the victim knows the suspect.”

The suspect is described as a male in his early 20s with black hair and blue eyes.

There are no known witnesses at this time.

Deisinger said police are still trying to establish the sequence of events that occurred early Sunday morning.

ISU Police received the report at approximately 4 a.m. Sunday.

“The victim initially [came to] a medical facility, which initiated the Sexual Assault Response Team process,” Deisinger said.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact ISU Police.

Deisinger said because of the nature of the crime and the possible location near or on campus, police believed it was important to notify the community.

He said police will release more information as it becomes available.

Deisinger said an assault by a stranger makes up a small percentage of the sexual assaults reported to police.

“The bulk of sexual assaults reported to ISU Police involve people who are known to the victim,” Deisinger said.

Police offered several safety suggestions for people walking on campus alone, including carrying a cell phone and reporting suspicious activity to police, walking in well-lit areas and being aware of the surroundings. Deisinger also said the safety escort service is available for faculty, staff and students who do not feel safe walking to areas on campus.