Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior from Kenner, Louisiana, died early Thursday morning after collapsing while taking part in an off-campus fraternity ritual, leaving Southern University students and the school community in mourning, according to a WAFB report.
Sources indicate that Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. members were engaged in a ritual where pledges stood in line when Wilson collapsed. Wilson’s friends transported him to Baton Rouge General Hospital after he became unresponsive and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The hospital notified the Baton Rouge Police at 3:15 a.m., launching an investigation into his death.
Southern University released a statement acknowledging the situation. “Southern University and A&M College is aware of an off-campus incident that may have resulted in the death of student Caleb Wilson, ” the statement reads. “The campus community extends condolences to his family, classmates, and loved ones.”
Southern University has made counseling services accessible to staff, teachers, and students and says it is fully collaborating with the Baton Rouge Police Department. Officials are performing an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.
Wilson was also a member of the Human Jukebox, Southern University’s marching band.
As the investigation continues, the Southern University community joins together to remember Caleb Wilson, honoring his life and the legacy he leaves behind.