A fraternity member from Southern University in Louisiana has been arrested following the tragic death of a new pledge during a hazing event.
On February 27, Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior studying mechanical engineering, participated in an initiation ritual for the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. During this event, he collapsed and was later pronounced dead at a Baton Rouge hospital around 3:15 a.m.
Caleb McCray, a 23-year-old fraternity member, was arrested on charges of manslaughter and felony criminal hazing. Allegations indicate that Wilson and other pledges were subjected to physical abuse, including being punched in the chest while McCray wore boxing gloves. After receiving multiple blows, Wilson fell unresponsive, and witnesses reported that he suffered a seizure.
Authorities later discovered that the individuals who took Wilson to the hospital initially lied about where he collapsed, claiming he had fainted while playing basketball instead of revealing the truth about the hazing incident.
As the investigation continues, the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office is conducting further tests to determine the exact cause of death, but initial reports show little trauma on Wilson’s body aside from a minor bruise.
Under Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, hazing can lead to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment if it results in a death or serious injury. In this case, Omega Psi Phi may face civil consequences for their actions.
Southern University has responded by suspending all fraternity activities on campus until the end of the academic year, emphasizing that hazing is strictly against school policy and state law. They have stated their commitment to supporting investigations into this incident.
In honor of Caleb Wilson, over a hundred members of the university community gathered for a vigil. Friends and family shared memories of his vibrant personality, describing him as joyful and driven. He was known for his talent as a trumpet player in the school’s famous marching band, recognized for its recent performance at the Super Bowl.
The emotional impact of this tragedy has extended beyond the campus, resonating within law enforcement and the community. Wilson’s family has received condolences from various leaders, including the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, where his father served as a respected deputy.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the need for ongoing conversations about hazing and its implications on student safety and well-being.
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