Two more suspects have been arrested in connection with the death of Caleb Wilson, a Southern University and A&M College student, during an alleged hazing incident. Wilson, a 20-year-old junior, died last month after being physically assaulted while pledging for a fraternity, according to police.
Incident Details
Authorities say Wilson collapsed after being punched multiple times in the chest during a fraternity initiation. He was later dropped off at a hospital unresponsive. Initially, the individuals who brought him in claimed he collapsed while playing basketball at a park. However, an investigation revealed that the incident took place at a warehouse in Baton Rouge, where he was pledging for Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
Arrests and Charges
One suspect, 23-year-old Caleb McCray, turned himself in last week and was charged with criminal hazing and manslaughter. This week, police arrested two additional suspects on felony hazing charges:
- Kyle Thurman, 25 – Arrested in Port Allen, Louisiana, by the U.S. Marshals and Baton Rouge Police.
- Isaiah Smith, 28 – Turned himself in and was booked into jail.
Smith’s attorney stated that a fair bond was set, and his family is working to secure his release. He also expressed condolences to Wilson’s family.
What Happened During the Hazing?
Court documents reveal that the suspects used boxing gloves to punch pledges as part of the hazing ritual. McCray is specifically accused of punching Wilson four times in the chest, causing him to collapse and appear to have a seizure.
Smith, who was the “dean of pledges” in charge of the pledging process, is accused of punching at least one student. Thurman allegedly punched pledges in another group, while McCray’s punches led to Wilson’s collapse. Smith was also seen on surveillance video removing Wilson’s unresponsive body from a car at the hospital.
Ongoing Investigation
Wilson was pronounced dead shortly after midnight on February 27. His cause of death is still under investigation, as forensic testing is ongoing. Police say more arrests may be made as the investigation continues.
Southern University, a historically Black college and university (HBCU), is cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal review. In response to Wilson’s death, the university has indefinitely suspended all new memberships for student organizations and is reviewing potential policy violations.
Fraternity’s Response
Omega Psi Phi’s national leadership has stated that they are gathering information and supporting law enforcement efforts. They have not yet commented on the arrests or their members’ involvement in the incident.
Remembering Caleb Wilson
Wilson was a dedicated student and a member of Southern University’s Human Jukebox marching band. Chancellor John Pierre described him as a “bright light” on campus. A public memorial will be held on Friday to honor his life.
Hazing is illegal in Louisiana and against Southern University’s policies. School officials emphasize that it will not be tolerated in any form.
