Who Was Caleb Wilson? Southern University Student Dies During an Off-Campus Fraternity Ritual

Caleb Wilson, 20, died during an alleged "fraternity ritual.

Wilson, a mechanical engineering major from Kenner, Louisiana, was an active member of the university's renowned marching band, the Human Jukebox.​

Incident Details

The incident occurred during an initiation event for Omega Psi Phi, a historically African American fraternity founded in 1911 at Howard University. Sources indicate that members were conducting a ritual involving pledges standing in line when Wilson collapsed.

Friends transported him to Baton Rouge General Hospital on Bluebonnet Boulevard early Thursday morning, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The hospital notified the Baton Rouge Police Department at 3:15 a.m., prompting a death investigation. ​

University Response

Southern University issued a statement acknowledging the incident:​

"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. The campus community extends condolences to his family, classmates, and loved ones." ​

The university is fully cooperating with the Baton Rouge Police Department in the ongoing investigation. Counseling services have been made available to students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy.​

"A talented trumpet player, a dedicated student, and a bright soul, Caleb was a mechanical engineering major who poured his passion into both his studies and his time with the Human Jukebox. His energy, spirit, and impact on those around him will never be forgotten" - Southern University

Honoring the Life of Caleb Wilson

Community Impact

Wilson's death has profoundly affected the Southern University community and beyond. Reverend Mitchell Stevens, whose son was a close friend of Wilson, expressed his shock and sorrow:​

"We were just devastated when we got the news. My wife and I traveled to Baton Rouge this morning to be with them." ​

Wilson's father, Corey Wilson, is a longtime member of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office. The office released a statement expressing their sympathies and support for the Wilson family during this difficult time. ​

Corey Wilson, A talented trumpet player

Fraternity Background

Omega Psi Phi, established on November 17, 1911, at Howard University, is committed to principles of scholarship, community service, and the upliftment of the African American community. Despite its esteemed history, the fraternity has faced scrutiny over hazing practices. Notably, in 2019, all new membership initiation activities were halted following the death of a Georgia Tech football player during a fraternity event.​

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities are conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of Wilson's death. The Baton Rouge Police Department is leading the investigation, with full cooperation from Southern University. As the community mourns, there is a renewed call for examining fraternity initiation practices to prevent future tragedies.​

This incident underscores the importance of addressing hazing and ensuring the safety of students participating in fraternity and sorority activities. The Southern University community continues to honor Caleb Wilson's memory while seeking answers and advocating for change.

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