The suspect, who is not a Humboldt State University student, reportedly assaulted a female resident in Sunset Hall. Another resident is reported to have assisted in fending off the attack, while the suspect was able to flee on foot. The suspect is then reported to have continued assaulting residents in the public walkway outside the Cypress Residence Hall. Officers from the University Police Department and the Arcata Police Department responded to multiple calls and arrested the suspect in the area near the Jolly Giant Commons. The suspect, Martin S. Alvarado, 29, of Pico Rivera, Calif., was transported to Humboldt County Jail, where he was booked on charges of Sexual Assault, False Imprisonment, Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Assault and Battery and Public Intoxication. Additional charges are pending an investigation.
Staff from HSU’s Counseling and Psychological Services were on hand Sunday to brief Housing Staff members on services available for those involved. Individuals are encouraged to seek counseling through the university during normal operational hours, 9 – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Those seeking immediate counseling support should contact Humboldt County Mental Health at (707) 445-7715. HSU’s Housing will be hosting a series of meetings to discuss the incident Monday night. Check the Housing website at http://humboldt.edu/housing for more information.
Additionally Housing staff members are conducting a full review of security and access procedures throughout the residence hall areas of campus and University Police has launched a full investigation into the incident.
Persons with specific knowledge of the events are encouraged to contact UPD at 826-5555.