Arrest made in Southern University hazing death

In a tragic turn of events, Baton Rouge authorities have announced an arrest and anticipate further arrests connected to the death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson, aged 20. This incident stems from an off-campus hazing ritual conducted by the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. Chief Thomas Morse Jr. of the Baton Rouge Police Department disclosed that Wilson’s death was directly due to a hazing activity where he was repeatedly punched in the chest.

Caleb McCray, aged 23 and a member of the fraternity, was apprehended on Thursday evening. He has been charged with manslaughter and felony criminal hazing following Wilson’s death, which occurred in late February. Wilson, who was a junior majoring in mechanical engineering, along with eight others undergoing the pledging process, endured repeated blows by McCray and at least two other individuals wearing boxing gloves, as per a police affidavit prepared after reviewing the case details.

The affidavit reveals that after being struck four times in the chest by McCray, Wilson collapsed and became unresponsive, seemingly experiencing a seizure and losing control of bodily functions. Despite these events, Wilson’s body had no apparent marks other than a minor bruise on the right side of his chest. Shane Tindall, Chief of Investigations at the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office, noted that further testing is pending but did not specify a timeline for its completion.

The affidavit also mentions that McCray had no intention to inflict death or severe harm on Wilson. Phillip Robinson, McCray’s attorney, stressed his client’s right to a fair process, urging public restraint from forming premature conclusions before all evidence is presented. Robinson also conveyed that McCray and his family have chosen not to provide public comments.

Following the incident, Southern University has suspended the fraternity and halted further pledging activities. The misrepresentation of Wilson’s condition by the individuals who took him to the hospital, claiming he collapsed while playing basketball rather than experiencing injuries at a warehouse, has raised concerns. The group departed before law enforcement could arrive, and at no point was 911 contacted: they also altered Wilson’s clothing prior to hospital admission.

The case draws parallels with Louisiana’s Max Gruver Act, aimed at combatting hazing—a law that surfaced following the hazing-related death of a Louisiana State University student. This statute can impose a penalty of up to a $10,000 fine and a five-year prison sentence for hazing that results in death or serious injury. The East Baton Rouge District Attorney hinted that the Omega Psi Phi fraternity might face civil charges under this legislation.

Dennis Shields, the President of Southern University, stated that the fraternity’s campus chapter has been directed to halt all activities, with potential expulsion facing students involved in this incident. Additionally, a moratorium on new members across all Greek life organizations has been enacted through the current academic year. Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. expressed its sorrow over the situation, confirming its cooperation with all ongoing investigations.

A large vigil took place in memory of Wilson, attended by Southern University’s community and state representatives, serving as a platform for shared stories about Wilson. Remembered as a joyful and driven individual, Wilson was also a talented musician, participating in the university’s renowned band, the “Human Jukebox.” The band shared on social media how Wilson’s spirit lingered in their performances, promising that his legacy will endure.