The University of British Columbia has alerted students about a break-in attempt at a student residence.

The incident occurred at 2 a.m. on March 31 at the Marine Drive Building 5 Residence.

A female student studying in the residence lounge saw a male pressing himself against the exterior window. The resident fled and the male tried to enter the building but was unable to.

The RCMP and campus security arrived after being called but weren't able to apprehend the suspect.

UBC sent out an email alert to students on April 1.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to call the RCMP at 604-224-1322.

Prior to this incident, a male had been witnessed at female residences at Vanier Place and Totem Park. The male has been seen lurking in female shower and residential rooms in five incidents. The male fled upon being detected by residents.

The male witnessed was similar in description to a sexual assault on March 26 that the university had previously issued a safety alert about.

At 10 p.m. on March 25, a female student was walking along the 2300 block of Wesbrook Mall when a man emerged from the wooded area, grabbed her, shook her, and forced her to the ground. He began to rub himself against her in a sexual manner but she fought back and the man fled.

The suspect is described as darker skinned and in his mid to late 20s. He is about 5'10" with a slender build, was wearing dark clothing (possibly a dark-coloured hoodie), and smelled of tobacco.