London officials urge Western University students to avoid large homecoming parties

London officials are urging Western University students to steer clear of a massive street party this weekend due to COVID-19 and recent sexual assault allegations.

The post-secondary school is marking their 72nd homecoming event this weekend.

The celebration is often marked by thousands of students partying on Broughdale Ave. on the Saturday of homecoming weekend.

But city officials are warning students to avoid it this year.

The Middlesex-London Health Unit has restricted social gatherings to 25 people indoors and 100 people outdoors to reduce the spread of COVID-19. London police plan to be at the event to enforce regulations.

The City of London is also asking students to not attend large gatherings following reports of sexual assaults at the university.

London police say four female students have come forward with complaints about being sexually assaulted on campus.

Police are also investigating allegations made on social media of mass drugging and sexual assaults at the Medway-Sydenham Hall residence during orientation week.

An 18-year-old student at the university died after an off-campus assault as well.