Masked man sexually assaults student

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - Norfolk Police say a masked man sexually assaulted an Old Dominion University student at her own home.

Police say the assault happened around 4:30 a.m. Monday on 41st Street, just blocks from campus. The victim was home alone at the time.

The street is in the Lambert's Point neighborhood, which houses a mix of students and families.

"I'd feel sick if something happened to her," said neighbor John Simpson, holding onto his daughter. "It makes you kind of worried when someone is coming in through the house."

Police aren't sure how the suspect got inside the student's home, but there were no signs of forced entry. Police say the victim and the suspect did not know each other.

"It's kind of scary, but you've got to keep your guard up at all times," said Akira Oree, a sophomore at ODU.

Students say the situation is a scary reminder to check and double check that doors and windows are locked.

"I lock the door every night," said Ifetayo Simmons, who lives on campus. "I look out the peep hole and lock the door every single night."

Students say 41st Street is a popular place for off campus parties. But now, they say, they will be more careful, knowing the suspect is still out there.

Police described the suspect as a 6-foot  tall, black male, who weighs around 150 pounds. Police say he fled the scene on foot.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.