Radford University police are investigating a sexual assault reported early Thursday on campus.

Police said the incident took place near Peters Hall between 3:30 and 4 a.m., and said the suspect was a stranger to the victim.

The incident was reported at 4:53 a.m., according to the university's daily crime report.

Peters Hall houses a fitness center and gymnasium as well as the departments of education and human development.

Police were looking for a man about 6 feet 1 inch tall with dark spiked hair cut short in the back, sideburns and bushy eyebrows. The man wore glasses with circular metal frames and a red collared shirt with dark jeans, according to a news release from the university police department.

The victim described him as speaking with a Southern accent, the release said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police department at 831-5500.

University spokesman Jeff Douglas said the university community experienced another sexual assault case about three weeks ago, but the school did not send out a notice because it was considered more "acquaintance-based" and did not pose a danger to the rest of campus, he said.

The incident that took place Thursday morning was considered "sufficiently threatening," Douglas said.

Universities are required to send out "timely warnings" of crimes that represent a threat to the safety under federal law.

In 2008, the university reported eight forcible sex crimes on campus.

In a warning sent out Thursday, police reminded everyone on campus to be safe and suggested walking in groups after dark and staying in well-lit areas. Police on campus also offer safety escorts.