Police Investigating Alleged Anti-Gay Assault

Two posts about an alleged assault in downtown State College spread across social media like wildfire on Sunday, prompting State College police to begin an investigation.

According to a tweet from the victim, he was allegedly assaulted by a \”frat guy\” after finding out the victim was gay. The tweet was accompanied by photos of his injuries, showing a black eye and a laceration that had bled down the victim\’s face.

\”Don\’t let a frat guy know that you\’re gay,\” the tweet read. As of Monday morning, it was retweeted over 11,000 times and favorited over 13,000 times.

A Facebook post from the victim later clarified that the alleged assault occurred on Frat Row, but that he was unsure whether the assailant was a fraternity member.  

Police later identified a suspect in the alleged assault, and they say he is not a fraternity member.

Victim has reported to police the assault first reported yesterday via social media. Suspect identified and is NOT a PSU fraternity member.

— State College Police (@StateCollegePD) October 6, 2015

Here\’s a look at the viral tweet:

According to a press release from the State College Police Department, officers have been made aware of the alleged assault and began an investigation. The release stated that police believe the assault may have occurred on North Burrowes Street, and that they will provide additional information when it is available.

A Facebook post from the friend of the victim also attracted much attention on social media. The post included the photos of the victims injuries posted to Twitter, and was shared over 1,000 times by Monday morning. In addition to calling attention to the alleged assault, the post also criticized the perception of Penn State as gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender friendly university.

\”I don\’t know a single gay student that at one time or another never felt unsafe over the course of their 4 years for being who they are, walking through those parts of State College after dark,\” the post stated.

Editor\’s note: This story has been updated to include new information from State College Police.