Southern University investigates death of student Caleb Wilson, who died in possible off-campus hazing incident

Police in Louisiana are investigating the death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old Southern University and A&M College student, as a possible case of fraternity hazing, university officials said Tuesday in a statement.

Wilson, a mechanical engineering junior, was pronounced deceased early in the morning on Thursday, Feb. 27, after being taken to Baton Rouge General Hospital by a group of males, CBS affiliate WFAB reported.

Investigation into Caleb Wilson’s alleged hazing death incident at Southern University

In the statement, the university said it supports the ongoing criminal investigation into an alleged hazing incident.

The investigation involves members of the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., according to the statement.

The HBCU said they that are “cooperating fully” and are also conducting its own internal investigation into the incident.

Southern University officials said hazing is a violation of the school’s rules and regulations, as well as a violation of state law.

Wilson’s family seeks truth

In a statement released Friday, Feb. 28, by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office on behalf of the family of Wilson, the family said, “we are committed to seeking the truth about the circumstances surrounding Caleb’s passing and ensuring that no other family has to endure such a tragedy.”

The family went on to say they expressed their “deepest gratitude to everyone who has offered their love, support and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

“The loss of Caleb has left an unimaginable void in our hearts, but your kindness and compassion have provided some solace,” the family said in the statement. “Caleb was a bright and talented young man with a promising future ahead of him.”

“His passion for life, his dedication to his studies, and his love for music and the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Marching Band were just a few of the many qualities that made him an extraordinary person”, they added.

The family also expressed appreciation for the efforts of Southern University and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the ongoing investigation by the Baton Rouge Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and Southern University.

“As we navigate this painful journey, we ask for your continued prayers and respect for our privacy,” the family said. “We find comfort in knowing that Caleb’s spirit lives on in the memories we cherish and the love we hold for him.”

Cause of death

Wilson’s cause and manner of death are pending autopsy results. According to The Advocate, authorities reportedly said the death was suspicious.

Club activities suspended at the university

Southern University suspended all club recruiting activities, including those related to Greek life in the wake of Wilson’s death, a university spokesman said.

On Friday, Feb. 28, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity International President Ricky L. Lewis described Wilson as “a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew and cousin” who was also “a scholar, an exceptional member of the Southern University Marching Band and a passionate and dedicated leader in student life.”

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