USC student allegedly raped by Lyft driver
Are you or someone you know a recent survivor of sexual assault? Help is available. Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) provides a 24/7 national sexual assault hotline, which can be reached at 1-800-656-4673
LOS ANGELES - Officials at the University of Southern California were warning students to remain vigilant following an alleged disturbing incident that happened near campus on Halloween night.
A female student told authorities she was raped by her Lyft driver when she was dropped off at her apartment complex near the campus in the 3600 block of South Grand Avenue in South LA's Historic South-Central neighborhood.
She caught the rideshare after attending Carnaval in West Hollywood.
The victim described the suspect's vehicle as a black sedan and said the driver was a thinly built man between 25 and 35 years old with a black beard and black hair, according to the USC Department of Public Safety.
UPDATE: Lyft bans driver suspected of raping USC student
"Our thoughts are with the victim and this has no place in society. Based on the information available at this time, we have not identified a report or ride matching the description and can’t confirm it involved the Lyft platform. We have reached out to law enforcement and stand ready to assist with their investigation," a Lyft spokesperson said in a statement to FOX 11.
(Getty Images)
Per protocol, USC's Department of Public Safety issued a "Crime Alert" bulletin to all students, faculty, and staff in response to the alleged incident. The alert contains crime prevention tips and resources for victims of sexual assault.
Those with information are asked to contact the LAPD or USC’s public safety department at 213-740-6000.
City News Service contributed to this report.