No Charges Filed In Punching Attack Near Rutgers

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ — No charges will be filed in the Oct. 29 punching attack of Emily Rand, New Brunswick Police told Patch.

Rand, a 19-year-old visiting the Rutgers area for a party, was punched by a man during an altercation, knocking her out. She sustained brain bleeding, a skull fracture and a concussion as a result from hitting the sidewalk, police said.

"At this time there will be no charges against the individual who punched Emily Rand or anyone else involved in the altercation(s) including Emily Rand herself," New Brunswick Police Captain Joseph Miller told Patch.

The individual was cooperative with police, Miller said, and his identity will not be released. Rand, who just recently began breathing on her own again, has not yet spoken to police.

"After detectives are able to speak with Emily Rand we will re-evaluate all of the evidence and determine if any charges are warranted," Miller said.

A video originally posted on Snapchat shows Rand throwing the first punch. Debbie O'Connor, Rand's aunt, told NJ 101.5 Rand was provoked because the men involved "were calling her and her friends names like ‘whore’ and ‘slut.’"

O'Connor has been providing updates on Rand's condition through a Friends of Emily Facebook group.

According to a post from Wednesday night, Rand's breathing tube has been removed, but she remains on an oxygen drip and a feeding tube. Rand is still having trouble speaking but will begin therapy on Thursday, her aunt said.

Her family has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for her medical bills. $3,550 has been raised toward the $5,000 goal so far.

Image via GoFundMe