BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB/Gray News) – A man has been arrested in connection with the hazing death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson.
The Baton Rouge Police Department said that 23-year-old Caleb McCray, a graduate of Southern University and member of Omega Psi Phi fraternity, has been arrested. He is charged with criminal hazing and manslaughter.
Officials said Wilson, a junior at the university, was participating in an off-campus and unsanctioned fraternity ritual with pledges and members of Omega Psi Phi fraternity on Feb. 27.
He reportedly was punched in the chest at a warehouse while pledging, then collapsed. He later died at the hospital.
Police said at no time did anyone call 911, attempt to call 911, or attempt to get an ambulance to the location.
Police said two others are facing misdemeanor hazing charges in connection with Wilson’s death.
The names of the other two people were not yet released. Police said additional warrants cannot be ruled out.
McCray’s attorney, Dr. Phillip M. Robinson, said in a statement that he maintains his client’s innocence.
“The charges brought against Mr. Caleb McCray are serious, and we acknowledge the gravity of this matter. However, it is essential to remember that an accusation is not proof of guilt,” Robinson said in a statement. “At this time, I have not been presented with any evidence to support such serious accusations. I maintain my client’s innocence and urge the public to withhold rushing to judgment until all the evidence is heard.”
The lawyer continued to say that “many details being reported in the media may be incomplete, false, or lack proper context.”
The manslaughter charge carries a sentence of up to 40 years in prison.
Police said the manslaughter charge was filed because there was no specific intent to kill, but a death occurred during the act of another felony – criminal hazing – being committed.
The Omega Psi Phi fraternity has been ordered to cease all activities. According to Southern University’s President, internal investigations and student code of conduct judiciary proceedings are ongoing.
The chapter has been ordered to cease all activities. In addition, no new membership into all campus Greek organizations can occur for the minimal of the rest of the academic year.
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