(LINCOLN, Neb.) – Sophia Turnpitt shares her story of the HAZING event that took place at UNL Campus.
Early morning on September 29th, I was walking back to my dorm alone after unsuccessfully trying to find a friend to walk with me.
On my way, an older man suddenly ran up behind me and attacked and sexually assaulted me. He pulled my hair and threw my phone into the street. I fought for my life—screaming, kicking, and doing everything I could to get away.
By God’s grace, I escaped, found my phone, and ran to the closest dorm. With the help of an amazing friend and the support of so many others, I was able to get back safely, call the police, and file a report.
The last few days have been an emotional whirlwind, there has been fear, anger sadness, confusion and so much to process. I am still processing what happened and I know that healing from something like this doesn’t happen overnight. But through all of it, I have been reminded how incredibly loved and supported I am. I am so grateful for my friends and family who have stood beside me and reminded me that I am not alone.
The investigation is ongoing as we work with law enforcement to identify the man who did this. I’m sharing my story not only to seek justice, but to use my voice for other women who have experienced sexual assault or abuse.
If you know me, you know I’ve never been one to back down—and I refuse to let this dim my light. What happened to me does not define me. It will not take away my voice, my strength, or who I am. For the women who weren’t believed. For the women who blamed themselves. For the women who didn’t get to make it home safely. To every woman who has experienced this: we hear you. We see you. We believe you. We love you. What happened to you was never your fault. I am grateful I fought, escaped, and made it home. And I will never take that for granted. I will keep fighting, keep speaking, and keep living my life loudly, fully, and unapologetically.
This did not break me. It reminded me how strong I am. And with God beside me, I’m not done fighting.

If you have any information about this crime or recognize the man pictured, please contact the Lincoln Police Department at 402-441-6000.
And PLEASE SHARE! Let our voices be heard!!
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