A female Syracuse University student was forcibly touched by a male suspect early Thursday morning while walking through Thornden Park.

The suspect approached the student politely at about 2 a.m. in the park, but suddenly pulled her to the ground and began to fondle her, according to a Department of Public Safety notice sent out to all SU students.

After a striking the suspect with her elbow, the female student was able to flee safely down Ostrom Avenue. The suspect was last seen running the opposite way, according to the report.

The initial investigation into the incident was done by the Syracuse City Police Department, which then shared the information with DPS, said DPS Chief Tony Callisto. Neither DPS nor SPD has further information at this time.

Thornden Park closes at dark, Callisto said. He reminded students and others to walk around together and stay in well-lit areas.

DPS is asking for help identifying the suspect, who is described as being male, black and wearing blue jeans with a pulled-up black-hooded sweatshirt at the time of the attack.

—Asst. News Editor Jessica Iannetta contributed reporting to this article.