Update, September 9: Penn State police have arrested sociology and criminology lecturer Robert Wahl for allegedly assaulting another employee in Willard Building last week.

According to the university’s crime log, Wahl faces charges for harassment. Wahl’s interim department director alleged his assault of an employee was “racially motivated,” but no such charges were filed.

Penn State placed Wahl on administrative leave as it continues investigating the incident.

Original Story: Two Penn State employees were involved in a physical altercation inside the Willard Building this week, a university spokesperson confirmed.

At around 5:25 p.m. on Wednesday, September 1, an employee reported being physically assaulted by another employee inside a Willard bathroom. Penn State said the victim was later transported to Mount Nittany Medical Center for an evaluation.

According to the Centre Daily Times, an anonymous bystander at the scene found the victim “yelling for help” on the ground outside a Willard restroom. Communications professor Will Yurman, another source identified by the Centre Daily Times, said the alleged victim told him he was attacked for improperly wearing a face mask. Both sources told the Centre Daily Times the victim appeared to be correctly wearing his mask when they arrived.

A Penn State spokesperson said the university can’t confirm any additional details while the investigation continues.

Anyone with information regarding the alleged incident is encouraged to contact Penn State police at (814) 863-1111.

About the Author