An HBCU has decided to remove a Black Greek Letter Organization from its campus following the death of a student pledge.
Southern University has expelled the Beta Sigma chapter of Omega Psi Phi following an investigation into hazing practices that led to the death of Caleb Wilson this past February.
Wilson, 20, was a member of the Human Jukebox when he died during hazing practices to pledge to the fraternity.
On the night of February 27, 2025, Wilson was brought unresponsive to a Baton Rouge hospital by a group of males, who initially claimed he collapsed while playing basketball at a city park.
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Police quickly determined this version was fabricated. Investigators learned Wilson had been participating in an off-campus hazing ritual at a warehouse while pledging Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
According to police and affidavits, Wilson and other pledges were ordered to change clothes and then repeatedly punched in the chest with boxing gloves as part of the hazing ritual.
Wilson collapsed after being struck, had a seizure, and lost bodily functions. Instead of calling 911, the group transported him to the hospital by private car, where he was later pronounced dead.
Police stated Caleb Wilson died as a direct result of a hazing incident where he was punched in the chest multiple times.
Criminal Investigation and Arrests
Several men have been arrested in connection with Wilson’s death:
Caleb McCray, 23, a Southern University graduate and member of Omega Psi Phi, was charged with manslaughter and criminal hazing.
Isaiah Smith and Kyle Thurmon were also arrested and charged with criminal hazing.
Southern previously placed fraternity chapter leader Safiyy Abdel-Raoof on leave following charges filed against members of the fraternity in Wilson’s death.
