Omega Psi Phi Speaks Out Following the Death of Southern University Student Caleb Wilson
Southern University in Baton Rouge has suspended all fraternity and sorority activities following the sudden death of 20-year-old student Caleb Wilson after a hazing tragedy. A junior studying mechanical engineering, Wilson collapsed last week during an off-campus fraternity event and was later pronounced dead at a Baton Rouge hospital.
Collapsed While Members Stood in a Line
According to Baton Rouge police, the incident took place at North Sherwood Forest Community Park during a gathering with members of Omega Psi Phi. Reports indicate that Wilson collapsed while members were standing in line. Authorities have yet to confirm if hazing was involved, but the case remains under investigation.
“All that information the detectives will look at, and that will determine where we go,” said Sgt. L’Jean McKneely of the Baton Rouge Police Department. An autopsy is being conducted to determine Wilson’s official cause of death.
Wilson was an accomplished musician and a proud member of Southern’s renowned Human Jukebox marching band. The organization paid tribute to him in a heartfelt Facebook post, remembering him as “a talented trumpet player, a dedicated student, and a bright soul.”
Southern University also released a statement acknowledging the tragedy:
“Southern University and A&M College is aware of an off-campus incident that may have resulted in the death of student Caleb Wilson, a junior from New Orleans majoring in mechanical engineering. Southern is cooperating fully with the Baton Rouge Police Department, which is in charge of the investigation. No further information is available at this time.”
The university has not yet addressed whether Omega Psi Phi will face disciplinary action.
Meanwhile, the fraternity’s international headquarters issued a statement expressing its condolences.
“It is with profound sorrow that we extend our condolences on the passing of Caleb Wilson. His loss is deeply felt, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by him,” the statement read. “Caleb was more than a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew and cousin – he was a scholar, an exceptional member of the Southern University Marching Band, and a passionate and dedicated leader in student life.”
The fraternity also affirmed its commitment to cooperating with authorities.
“We have been informed that the local authorities have launched an investigation into this tragic incident, and we fully support their efforts to seek the truth. Currently, our foremost priority is standing in unwavering support of Caleb’s family. We have extended ourselves to them and are ready to assist in any way possible during this difficult time,” the statement continued, adding that they are “actively working to gather accurate information” as more details emerge.
As the investigation unfolds, students, faculty, and loved ones continue to mourn the loss of a young life taken too soon.
