BU Exchange Student Takes Legal Action Against WPI and Fraternity Over Serious Burn Injury

Yvette Digan, a 22-year-old exchange student from Hong Kong, recently experienced a traumatic incident in the U.S. She suffered severe burns on nearly a third of her body during a social event at a Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) fraternity house.

According to her lawsuit, a fraternity member carelessly poured a flammable liquid, thought to be denatured alcohol, onto a fire, which resulted in Yvette’s serious injuries. She has second and third-degree burns affecting her legs, left hand, and chest. These burns damage her skin and deeper tissues, impacting hair follicles, sweat glands, and nerve endings.

Yvette arrived in the U.S. for a summer exchange program at Boston University. She attended the fraternity gathering to reconnect with a friend from WPI. In July, her lawyer expressed disappointment over WPI’s response, stating the university had not stepped up for its injured student.

WPI declined to comment due to ongoing litigation. Alongside the fraternity, Yvette is also preparing to take legal action against Luxco, the maker of Everclear, the high-proof spirit implicated in her injuries. The company has not yet responded to requests for comment.

To help cover her medical expenses, Yvette has launched a GoFundMe page.

Expert Insight

Burn injuries can have long-lasting consequences. Dr. Samantha Fields, a plastic surgeon who specializes in burn treatment, notes that “effective treatment and rehabilitation are crucial to recovery.” The emotional and psychological impacts can be significant, necessitating ongoing support and care.

Statistics

Recent data show that accidents related to alcohol consumption, particularly in party settings, have been rising. A report from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism indicates that approximately 110,000 people go to the emergency room for alcohol-related injuries each year in the U.S. This underscores the need for increased awareness and safety at social gatherings.

In light of Yvette’s case, many on social media have voiced their support. A trending hashtag, #JusticeForYvette, has emerged, calling for accountability and better safety measures in fraternity houses. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities we hold in social situations.

As discussions continue, it’s clear that such incidents provoke strong reactions. Communities are pushing for stricter regulations on alcohol use in party settings to prevent future tragedies.

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