Students react after reported sexual assault inside ISU’s Watterson Towers

PEORIA (25News Now) - Students at Illinois State University say they’re paying closer attention to their surroundings after a reported sexual assault inside Watterson Towers over the weekend.According to an Illinois State University Crime Advisory, university police responded to Watterson Towers around 2:30 a.m. Sunday after a student reported being sexually assaulted about an hour earlier in a lower-level service area of the residence hall.Police say the student was surprised by an unknown attacker wearing a black ski mask and eye covering. The student fought back, escaped and, with the help of housing staff, contacted police. The investigation remains ongoing.The incident has left many students shocked, particularly because it happened inside one of the university’s residence halls.“Honestly, it kind of has stressed me out. I can’t even lie,” said freshman Olivia Garcia. “I’ve definitely been more aware of my surroundings. I always try to have somebody walking with me, or at least so