Students warned to be vigilant after attack in Harvard Yard

By Globe Staff

Police at Harvard University are warning students to be careful when they walk through campus and surrounding areas, both day and night, after a female student was attacked early Tuesday in Harvard Yard by a man who put a wire around her neck.

Police said in an e-mail crime alert to students this week that the victim had reported an "assault and battery" at about 1:40 a.m. in the Yard -- the college quad just off Harvard Square -- near Houghton Library by the stairs going down toward Pusey Library.

In a log entry posted on the university police website, police wrote that the unidentified student was "approached from behind by an unknown individual who then placed a wire around their neck. The reporting party stated that they pulled the wire away and kicked the individual.''

In the e-mail to students, police recommended that students take appropriate precautions, such as walking in groups and using the university shuttle bus, van service, and walking escort program.

Police also warned students not to become oblivious of their surroundings by talking on cellphones or listening to music.

"If you suspect you are being followed, stay away from dimly lit areas and head for a store or building that you know to be open. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable about someone near you, head for a populated area and call the Harvard University Police Department," police said.

University spokesman Robert Mitchell didn't immediately have a comment this afternoon.

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