A deadly fraternity hazing incident at Southern University has resulted in the arrests of three men following the tragic death of 20-year-old student Caleb Wilson.
Victim: Caleb Wilson
Wilson, a junior mechanical engineering major and trumpet player in the university’s Human Jukebox marching band, suffered multiple blows to the chest with boxing gloves during an alleged Omega Psi Phi pledging ritual. He later collapsed and was taken to Baton Rouge General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Suspects and Charges
The Baton Rouge Police Department has arrested three individuals in connection with Wilson’s death:
Caleb McCray, 23 – A Southern University graduate, McCray has been charged with manslaughter and criminal hazing. Authorities allege that he delivered the fatal blows to Wilson during the initiation event.
Kyle Thurman, 25 – Arrested in Port Allen, Louisiana, Thurman faces felony criminal hazing charges after failing to surrender before the deadline.
Isaiah Smith, 28 – Believed to have organized the hazing event at a warehouse owned by his father’s flooring company, Smith has been charged with felony criminal hazing. He is accused of transporting Wilson to the hospital and misleading authorities about the cause of his injuries.
Hazing Incident Details
The hazing took place on February 21 in a warehouse, contradicting fraternity members’ initial claims that Wilson was injured during a basketball game. Investigators later uncovered the truth, leading to the arrests.
University Response
Following Wilson’s tragic death, Southern University suspended the Omega Psi Phi chapter and halted all fraternity and sorority pledging activities for the remainder of the academic year.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and further charges may be filed as the case develops. Wilson’s death has reignited concerns about dangerous hazing practices on college campuses, sparking renewed calls for harsher penalties and increased oversight of fraternity activities.
