The Newark Police Department announced Tuesday morning that it is investigating an assault that occurred in the unit block of North Chapel Street at approximately 6 p.m., Friday, April 13.

Newark Police officers arrived on scene and located a 23-year-old man suffering from a leg fracture. The victim was transported by Aetna Hose, Hook and Ladder Company to Christiana Hospital for treatment.

The victim is not a University of Delaware student, but some of the individuals involved are believed to be UD students.

Investigating officers learned from witnesses that the victim was involved in an altercation at a party and was then assaulted by several people at the party, leading to the leg injury. Officers further learned that during the assault, derogatory statements in reference to sexual identity were made.

Newark Police are actively investigating this assault and the elements of it that may lead to a charge of a hate crime in addition to the assault. UD Police are working with Newark Police on this investigation.

The incident stands in stark contrast to UD's core values. UD is a community where diverse backgrounds, values and viewpoints are celebrated and respected.

University President Dennis Assanis sent a message to the University community on April 16 in which he said, “This kind of reprehensible behavior is not tolerated at the University of Delaware. We will take all appropriate measures in the student conduct process to ensure any offenders are held accountable for their actions.”

Newark Police said additional details will be released as they become available.

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to contact Officer A. Maiura at AMaiura@newark.de.us or 302-366-7100 ext. 3495. Anonymous tips can be texted to 302NPD, with the message to TIP411. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1‐800‐TIP‐3333 or at www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available.

Resources

UD students who may be feeling anxious can contact the Center for Counseling and Student Development (CCSD) at 302-831-2141 or http://www.udel.edu/counseling. The CCSD is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. The UD Helpline is also available 24 hours a day at 302-831-1001.  

Members of the UD community may download a free smartphone app, LiveSafe, that lets users submit tips to police, receive important broadcast notifications and contact the University of Delaware Police Department directly. To learn more, visit this UD Police website.

Visit this website to subscribe for a UD Crime Alert email whenever an article about a police investigation is posted on UDaily.