“Tragedy Strikes Southern University Campus: Student’s Death Linked to Alleged Hazing Incident”
Law enforcement officials have arrested a suspect on charges of manslaughter and hazing in connection with the tragic death of a Southern University and A&M College student following an alleged hazing incident. The victim, Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior at the college in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away after an off-campus incident last week. Initial reports indicated that Wilson was brought to a local hospital unresponsive by a group of individuals, with the cause attributed to a basketball game mishap. However, further investigation revealed that the incident occurred during a fraternity pledging ceremony at a warehouse. Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse disclosed that Wilson died as a result of hazing, specifically being punched in the chest multiple times while pledging to the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Despite the severity of the situation, no one involved in the incident sought emergency assistance.
One suspect, 23-year-old Caleb McCray, turned himself in and has been charged with criminal hazing and manslaughter. McCray, along with at least two others, allegedly used boxing gloves to physically assault Wilson and eight other pledges during a fraternity event. The affidavit details that McCray struck Wilson four times in the chest, leading to his collapse and subsequent death. A search of the warehouse yielded black boxing gloves, supporting the claims made by authorities. McCray, a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Louisiana Army National Guard, denies any intent to cause harm or death and asserts his innocence through legal representation. Additionally, police are pursuing warrants for two more suspects in connection with the incident.
Authorities have indicated that more suspects may be involved in the incident and additional arrests are possible, according to a statement. The exact number of individuals present at the warehouse has not been disclosed by the police. An investigation is ongoing to establish a detailed timeline of the events that transpired, as stated by Morse. Law enforcement officials have conducted interviews with over a dozen individuals and carried out multiple search warrants as part of the inquiry. Southern University, a historically Black college and university, is assisting with the criminal investigation and has initiated an internal probe to determine the circumstances surrounding Wilson’s death in light of reports of unauthorized off-campus activities. The school has emphasized that hazing is strictly prohibited under its rules and Louisiana law. Disciplinary processes have been initiated for any alleged violations of school policies related to hazing. Membership intake for all student organizations has been halted indefinitely following Wilson’s death. The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity is collaborating with local authorities and has pledged full cooperation with the investigation. The cause of Wilson’s death remains undetermined as additional forensic testing is awaited, according to the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office. Wilson, a mechanical engineering major and member of the university’s marching band, is remembered as a talented musician and dedicated student. University officials and local authorities express condolences to Wilson’s family and urge young people to make responsible choices.
