TO: Campus Community
FR: Nader Oweis, Chief of Police
The Sonoma State University Police Department is seeking the community’s assistance in identifying the suspect in an aggravated assault investigation that occurred this morning at approximately 0715 hours on Sequoia Way at E. Cotati Avenue.
The unidentified suspect, described as a white male adult, 30 to 40 years of age, with a shaved head and without facial hair, attempted to pepper spray two faculty members who were in the crosswalk. The suspect drove away westbound on E. Cotati Avenue in an unknown model white Tesla.
The Tesla was described as having a license plate that began with 9C7 or 97C.
In addition to this incident, at noon today, four teenage males shot “orbeez” gel pellets, which are super-absorbent polymer water beads, from a moving vehicle at the intersection of Vine Street and E. Cotati Avenue. Several faculty members were struck but were not injured. Officers were able to locate and identify the males associated with this assault. (242 PC, Case 24–007)
If you know something: Anyone with information that might assist with the investigation is urged to call the Sonoma State University Police Department at (707) 664-4444.
The Sonoma State University Police Department reminds the campus community to:
- Immediately and promptly report any suspected crime, suspicious persons, or activities on campus by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 707-664-4444, or by utilizing one of the many Blue Light Phones on campus.
- If you believe that you or someone else is in an unsafe situation, please do not delay calling 911 or seeking assistance from others. (if applicable)
- Be alert to your surroundings. Your actions as an active bystander can help prevent crimes from occurring within our campus community.
- Call the Sonoma State University Police Department for an on-campus safety escort or walk with another person or group of people.
You are not at fault for any harm done to you. The above safety tips are not intended to imply otherwise.
SUPPORT RESOURCES: Counseling and Psychological Services are available for any student seeking support at (707) 664-2153. A Confidential Advocate is also available at 707-664-2698. Our Employee Assistance Program, LifeMatters by Empathia, is available as a support resource for staff and faculty at
1 (800) 367-7474.