The Starkville Police Department is investigating the reported robbery of a 21-year-old female Mississippi State University student held at gunpoint early Sunday morning. The incident took place at 2:30 a.m. on University Drive near Stromboli’s, a university news release read.
Her purse and identification were stolen, but the assailant, described as a black male, left her unharmed. 
For the second time in one week Thomas Bourgeois, dean of students, addressed students and faculty via email stressing caution after dark as a priority for all students.
“We cannot overemphasize the need to be vigilant in taking every precaution for safety,” Bourgeois said. “It is never a good idea to walk or jog alone, especially during hours when it is dark and deserted.”
This event marks the second violent attack on University Drive in one week.
Sept. 12, a female jogger not affiliated with the MSU was attacked and escaped sexual assault on University Drive at around 5:15 a.m.
The victim’s assailant has yet to be apprehended.
The SPD is working with the MSU Police Department to seek the public’s help in identifying both suspects.
Anyone with information about the suspect involved in the incident is encouraged to contact the SPD at 323-4131, the Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers at 1-800-530-7151 or the MSU campus police at 325-2121.