A late-night walk across UCLA’s Westwood campus turned into a tense chase early Friday when a homeless man allegedly targeted multiple students in a string of attacks stretching from residence halls to Bruin Walk. The series of incidents ended only after a witness pursued the suspect out of a dorm, then helped officers track him down near a campus parking structure. The arrest quickly triggered boosted patrols and fresh reminders about how students can get around safely after dark.
According to CBS Los Angeles, UCLA police identified the suspect as 29-year-old Olumuyiwa Akindahunsi, who is not affiliated with the university. He was booked on suspicion of robbery, attempted kidnapping, assault with intent to commit a sex offense and sexual battery, and his bail was set at $2.3 million.
Timeline and scene
Per a news release from the UCLA Police Department, the overnight ordeal began around 11:35 p.m. when a student’s cellphone was taken on Bruin Walk. In the roughly half hour that followed, police say, additional assaults were reported inside or near De Neve Evergreen, Dykstra Hall and Cedar Hall.
The sequence of alleged attacks ended at about 12:05 a.m. after an assault at Cedar Hall. A witness intervened, chased the suspect out of the building and guided officers to him near Parking Structure 8, where he was taken into custody.
What officers say they found
Police say they recovered zip ties, duct tape and paracord on the suspect at the time of the arrest, and that multiple female victims either fought back or received help from bystanders during the alleged attacks. UCLA Chief of Police Craig Valenzuela told CBS Los Angeles, “Incidents like these are deeply concerning, and the safety and security of our campus community remains our highest priority.”
Campus response and safety options
In the wake of the arrest, UCPD said it is increasing patrols across campus and urged anyone with information or concerns to contact investigators and report suspicious activity promptly. The department also reminded students about the Community Service Officer evening escort program, a free walking-escort service that runs from dusk until 1 a.m.; details are posted on the UCLA Police Department.
Context
The arrest comes during a year in which UCLA has already been confronting heightened anxiety around campus safety. In March, UCLA police arrested a Santa Monica man in a separate kidnapping and sexual-assault investigation involving students and another woman, according to The Los Angeles Times. Student leaders and housing staff have repeatedly urged Bruins to use escort and late-night transport options and to speak up quickly if they see behavior that seems off.
Legal note
Akindahunsi has been booked on multiple felony counts and remains in custody while prosecutors decide on formal charges. Anyone with information about the overnight incidents is asked to contact UCPD at (310) 825-1491 so investigators can follow up.
