Overview

• Penn Public Safety issued an alert Friday describing multiple incidents in the corridor from Market to Locust streets between 38th and 40th streets.
• Officials said groups of young people approached pedestrians and struck them on the head with an open hand or a closed fist.
• The department characterized the attacks as unprovoked and said they may be tied to a nationwide social-media trend, a link not yet confirmed.
• The university said it has added police and security presence in the affected area and is working with city partners to prevent further incidents.
• Students and neighbors were urged to stay alert, limit distractions, note nearby exits, and use 24-hour walking escort services, with no arrests or suspect identifications announced.