Sex Assault Reported at UChicago Off-Campus Frat House
Chicago police are investigating a reported sexual assault at an off-campus fraternity house across from the University of Chicago campus in the Hyde Park neighborhood. The University of Chicago said in a campus alert that at 1:50 a.m. Sunday, a woman not affiliated with the university was sexually assaulted during a party at the fraternity house at 5625 S. University Ave., an address that matches the Alpha Epsilon Pi house.
The university's safety alert said an unidentified man fled the house after another person intervened. Police identified the woman as 21, and she was treated at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Chicago Police Area One detectives are leading the investigation, with help from university police. No arrest has been reported, and the suspect has not been identified.
The incident happened during a gathering advertised as "Pi2K," which began around 10:30 p.m. The university said fraternities are not affiliated with UChicago, but their members must follow the university's code of conduct.
The fraternity has responded. Alpha Epsilon Pi said it unconditionally opposes sexual harassment and sexual assault, and its membership rules absolutely prohibit them. The fraternity's national organization said the local chapter has been told not to hold events or programs while the investigation continues. The fraternity has said it is cooperating with police.
University leaders called the incident deeply concerning for the campus community. The university said it remains committed to addressing sexual misconduct, imposing disciplinary consequences where warranted, and improving prevention. The reported assault has raised concerns among some students about safety in campus social settings, and fraternity houses are a prominent part of the neighborhood along South University Avenue.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Chicago police. Survivors of sexual assault can call the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) for confidential support.
As with any open investigation, the details come from police and university statements, and no one has been charged. More information is expected as detectives continue their work.