Southern University Suspends Greek Life After Student Dies in Suspected Hazing Incident

BATON ROUGE, LA – Southern University has officially suspended all fraternity and sorority activities following the sudden death of 20-year-old Caleb Wilson, a junior mechanical engineering student. Wilson tragically collapsed during an off-campus fraternity event and later died at a Baton Rouge hospital.

According to Baton Rouge police, the incident occurred at North Sherwood Forest Community Park during an event involving members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Reports indicate that participants were standing in line when Wilson suddenly collapsed. His exact cause of death is still under investigation, with an autopsy currently underway.

Sgt. L’Jean McKneely of the Baton Rouge Police Department emphasized that authorities have not confirmed nor denied if hazing played a role. “All that information the detectives will look at, and that will determine where we go,” McKneely stated.

Southern University Campus in Mourning

Wilson was a talented trumpet player and a proud member of Southern University’s Human Jukebox marching band. In a heartfelt Facebook tribute, the band called Wilson “a bright soul” and “a dedicated student.”

Southern University also released a statement expressing its grief:

“Southern University and A&M College is aware of an off-campus incident that may have resulted in the death of student Caleb Wilson, a junior from New Orleans majoring in mechanical engineering. Southern is cooperating fully with the Baton Rouge Police Department, which is in charge of the investigation. No further information is available at this time.”

Omega Psi Phi Breaks Silence

Following Wilson’s death, the international headquarters of Omega Psi Phi released a statement:

“It is with profound sorrow that we extend our condolences on the passing of Caleb Wilson. His loss is deeply felt, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by him.”

The fraternity emphasized that it is fully cooperating with authorities and that its top priority is supporting Wilson’s family. “Many of you may have questions, and we are actively working to gather accurate information,” the statement added.

Unanswered Questions & Next Steps

Southern University has not confirmed whether Omega Psi Phi will face further sanctions. As the investigation continues, many wonder whether hazing was involved and what consequences Greek organizations might face on campus.

For now, the university has halted all Greek life activities, leaving students and alumni grappling with the tragic loss of a promising young scholar.

Photos courtesy of the family.