Local authorities in Baton Rouge are currently looking into the death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old Southern University student, as a potential result of fraternity hazing. Wilson, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering and a member of the university’s famous marching band, passed away on February 27. School officials revealed to the press on Wednesday that Omega Psi Phi fraternity is under scrutiny due to its alleged involvement in the incident.
The chancellor of Southern University and A&M College, John K. Pierre, mentioned on the institution’s social media that an incident off-campus might have led to Wilson’s untimely demise. Confirmation of the investigation into possible hazing related to Omega Psi Phi was provided by a university spokesperson. Ricky L. Lewis, who serves as the international president of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., released a statement acknowledging the investigation and pledged the fraternity’s cooperation with authorities.
Lewis emphasized the fraternity’s commitment to uncovering the truth, although it remains unknown if Wilson was formally associated with the fraternity. Official details on the cause of Wilson’s death are still awaited, with Baton Rouge police yet to issue a comment regarding the ongoing investigation.
Wilson’s family expressed their grief in a statement broadcast by a local TV station, remembering him as an “extraordinary person” whose presence and abilities foreshadowed a bright future. The family vowed to actively seek out the truth behind Wilson’s death to prevent similar tragedies for other families in the future. Wilson was celebrated for his musical talent, being a notable trumpet player in the university’s “Human Jukebox” marching band, which gained recognition for performing at the Super Bowl.
In tribute to Wilson’s memory, fellow band members performed Stevie Wonder’s “Love Light in Flight” during a New Orleans Mardi Gras parade event over the weekend. The band’s official social media page shared footage of the performance, describing it as both a tribute and a commitment to continuing Wilson’s legacy.
In response to Wilson’s death, Southern University has suspended all club recruiting activities related to Greek life, pending further notice. On Tuesday, the university made public its intention to carry out an internal investigation along with student judiciary assessments to address the alleged hazing incident. The university has reiterated its stance on enforcing anti-hazing policies, with promises of immediate disciplinary action against any violation.
A mandatory requirement for anti-hazing training is in place at Southern University for all its clubs and organizations. This initiative aligns with state efforts to curb hazing, particularly after the death of Max Gruver in 2018. Gruver, a student at Louisiana State University, succumbed to alcohol poisoning following a hazing incident, which led to the enactment of stricter anti-hazing laws by the state.
