Tragic Fraternity Hazing Leads to Student's Death, 3 Arrested

Three students from Southern University and A&M College are in custody, being investigated for their involvement in the unfortunate passing of their fellow student named Caleb Wilson.

20-year-old Wilson passed away on February 26, directly linked to a hazing event where he was repeatedly punched in the chest, according to Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse, as reported by NBC News.

23-year-old Caleb McCray surrendered to Baton Rouge police on March 7 and was taken into custody for manslaughter and criminal hazing charges. Kyle Thurman, aged 25, was apprehended in Port Allen, Louisiana on March 10, transferred to Baton Rouge, and also booked for criminal hazing. Isaiah Smith, who is 28 years old, has been charged with the same offense after surrendering to authorities on March 11.

The police were informed by witnesses about the supposed hazing incident, claiming that Wilson, along with eight other initiates, were ordered to form a line and receive four punches each, using boxing gloves. This account is detailed in the arrest warrant affidavits for both Smith and Thurman.

As reported by TopMob News from their gathered documents, it’s stated that McCray struck Wilson forcefully in the torso. This blow led Wilson to fall down and seem disoriented, appearing as if he was in pain and struggling to maintain control over his bodily functions, ultimately resulting in him urinating involuntarily.

At the off-campus warehouse event, neither attendee contacted emergency services as stated by the police chief to NBC News. However, based on affidavits, it appears that while fraternity leaders were tending to Wilson, the pledges were escorted to another room. Subsequently, Wilson was transported in Smith’s vehicle to a hospital where he tragically passed away.

The autopsy report indicated that there was a minor bruise found on the right side of Wilson’s chest, and it was noted that his clothes had already been replaced before he arrived at the hospital, according to the records.

On March 7, the university announced a cease-and-desist order to the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity. They also made it clear that no new members will be accepted by any campus Greek organization for the rest of this academic year, as a precautionary measure.

The International President of Omega Psi Phi, Ricky L. Lewis, released a statement after the demise of Wilson as well.

With heartfelt sadness, we express our sympathies following the death of Caleb Wilson. His absence is greatly felt, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. Beyond being a cherished family member, Caleb was also an esteemed scholar, a talented musician in the Southern University Marching Band, and a committed student leader.

Furthermore, it’s been announced that the authorities are investigating the unfortunate event, which we wholeheartedly back in their pursuit of the facts. At present, our primary concern is offering unyielding support to Caleb’s family. We’ve reached out to them and stand ready to help in any capacity needed during these trying circumstances.

According to NBC News, the police chief added that initially, authorities believed a gang of boys had driven Wilson to the hospital emergency room. It was also claimed that he sustained a chest injury while playing basketball and later collapsed in a park after being struck there.

While searching through the warehouse belonging to a flooring company, a set of black boxing gloves were discovered in an office, according to statements made by the police in their affidavits. The investigation regarding Wilson’s death continues at this time.

During a search of a warehouse owned by a flooring business, a pair of black boxing gloves was found in one of the offices, as stated in the police’s affidavits. The ongoing investigation is focused on the death of Wilson.

Or simply:
In the course of searching a warehouse belonging to a flooring company, a pair of black boxing gloves were uncovered in an office by police, as mentioned in their affidavits. The investigation into Wilson’s death remains active.

After McCray was taken into custody, attorney Philip M. Robinson asserted that there was no wrongdoing on his client’s part. In a statement to People, he emphasized, “It’s crucial to recall that an accusation isn’t equal to proof of guilt.” He continued, “I stand by my client’s innocence and ask the public to refrain from making hasty judgments until all the facts have been presented.

In a statement on March 7th, the university announced they had quickly issued a stop-and-warn order to the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity. Moreover, they notified all campus Greek organizations that no new member recruitment would be allowed for the rest of this academic year at the very least.

The International President of Omega Psi Phi, Ricky L. Lewis, likewise released a statement upon Wilson’s passing.

With heartfelt sadness, we offer our sympathies for the demise of Caleb Wilson. His absence is keenly felt, and our thoughts are with his family, acquaintances, and everyone who knew him. Beyond being a cherished son, grandson, brother, nephew, and cousin, Caleb was also a brilliant scholar, an outstanding member of the Southern University Marching Band, and a committed and dynamic student leader.

The statement went on to say, “We’ve learned that the local authorities are investigating the sad event, and we wholeheartedly back their mission to uncover the facts. At present, our primary concern is offering steadfast support to Caleb’s family. We’re reaching out to them and stand ready to help in any way needed during these challenging circumstances.

2025-03-12 20:18

Tragic Fraternity Hazing Leads to Student’s Death, 3 Arrested

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