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Black America Web
21-07-2025
- Black America Web
Southern University Expels Omega Psi Phi Chapter After Hazing Death
Source: Southern University has taken decisive action by expelling the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity from its campus. As reported by WAFB-TV, this decision follows a thorough investigation into hazing allegations that culminated in the tragic death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior and a beloved member of the university's world-renowned Human Jukebox marching band. Wilson, a mechanical engineering major from Kenner, Louisiana, was a talented trumpet player with a bright future ahead of him. His life was cut short in February during a hazing ritual that took place at an off-campus warehouse. According to reports, Wilson was punched in the chest as part of the initiation process while pledging the fraternity. The incident sent shockwaves through the Southern University community and beyond, sparking outrage and calls for accountability. In the aftermath of Wilson's death, three individuals—Caleb McCray, 23; Kyle Thurman, 25; and Isaiah Smith, 28—were arrested and charged in connection with the hazing incident. Their arrests marked the beginning of a broader investigation into the fraternity's practices, ultimately leading to the university's decision to expel the chapter. Southern University announced that the Beta Sigma Chapter is now stripped of all privileges and rights associated with its recognition on campus. This includes the removal of all identifiable markers tied to the fraternity, such as plots, benches, trees, monuments, and other items. As of Thursday afternoon, the Omega Psi Phi plot on campus was covered up in blue tarp. #NEWS The Omega Psi Phi plot at Southern University has been covered up with blue tarp. This comes while hundreds of… Posted by Mia Monet on Thursday, July 17, 2025 The university's administration emphasized that this action reflects its unwavering commitment to student safety and its zero-tolerance policy toward hazing. The expulsion of the fraternity chapter is the latest in a series of measures taken by Southern University to address the issue. Earlier this year, the university issued a cease-and-desist order to the chapter as part of its initial response to the hazing allegations. The administration also launched a student judiciary process to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that those responsible were held accountable. The death of Caleb Wilson has reignited a national conversation about the dangers of hazing and the toxic culture that can sometimes permeate Greek life organizations. Advocates for anti-hazing reforms have pointed to this case as a tragic example of why stricter enforcement and education are necessary to prevent similar incidents in the future. Southern University's decision to expel the Beta Sigma Chapter sends a clear message about the institution's priorities. By taking a firm stance against hazing, the university aims to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all students. The administration has reiterated its commitment to upholding the values of respect, integrity, and accountability. As the university moves forward, the hope is that this tragedy will serve as a turning point, not only for Southern University but for campuses across the nation. The expulsion of the Beta Sigma Chapter is a reminder of the serious consequences of hazing and the importance of creating a culture where students can thrive without fear of harm. SEE ALSO Southern University Expels Omega Psi Phi Chapter After Hazing Death was originally published on
Miami Herald
19-07-2025
- Miami Herald
HBCU expels fraternity following hazing death investigation
BATON ROUGE, LA - HBCU Southern University has expelled the Beta Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. following a hazing investigation tied to the death of 20-year-old student Caleb Wilson. This marks a significant disciplinary step for the HBCU, following months of scrutiny and legal fallout stemming from the February incident. The Division of Student Affairs launched the investigation in February. After holding a disciplinary hearing, officials found the Omega Psi Phi chapter responsible for violating the student code of conduct, particularly in relation to hazing. As a result, the university revoked all fraternity privileges and ordered the removal of physical markers, including monuments, benches, and the fraternity's campus plot. Police reports state that Wilson and eight other pledges went to a flooring company on February 26 for a fraternity meeting. They were told to change into gray sweatsuits. Once inside, at least three individuals - including 23-year-old Caleb McCray from Wylie, Texas - punched each pledge four times in the chest with boxing gloves. Witnesses say McCray struck Wilson four times, causing him to collapse. He became unresponsive, appeared to have a seizure, and urinated on himself. Fraternity members changed his clothing and took him to a hospital. An autopsy revealed a bruise on his chest. Authorities confirmed that Wilson's death resulted from the hazing incident. Law enforcement later charged McCray, a former Southern University student, with criminal hazing and manslaughter. His former high school football coach confirmed that McCray enrolled at the HBCU after graduating in 2019. Omega Psi Phi, a historically Black fraternity founded in 1911, has played a long-standing role in Southern University's campus culture. The Beta Sigma Chapter, specifically, was a highly visible presence for decades. That legacy came to an end with the expulsion and the covering of the fraternity's sacred plot - now draped with a tarp. As incoming freshmen arrived for orientation, students noticed the change. "I haven't heard anything much about why it's being covered," said senior Harold Rose. "No emails or none of that." This tragedy underscores the dangers of hazing and marks a pivotal moment for Greek life reform at Southern University and throughout the HBCU world. The post HBCU expels fraternity following hazing death investigation appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
