Additional Coverage:
Two More Arrests Made in Southern University Hazing Death
Baton Rouge, LA— Two more individuals have been arrested in connection with the hazing-related death of 20-year-old Southern University student Caleb Wilson. 25-year-old Kyle Thurman and 28-year-old Isaiah Smith are now facing felony criminal hazing charges. Thurman was apprehended in Port Allen on Monday, while Smith surrendered to Baton Rouge police on Tuesday. These arrests follow the apprehension of 23-year-old Caleb McCray last Friday, who is charged with criminal hazing and manslaughter.
Police believe the hazing incident took place at a Baton Rouge flooring company warehouse on February 26. Wilson and eight other pledges, dressed in gray sweatsuits, allegedly endured a ritual involving boxing gloves.
According to arrest warrants, McCray, Thurman, and Smith allegedly punched the pledges four times each. Thurman allegedly punched the first group of pledges, McCray the second (which included Wilson), and Smith at least one pledge.
Wilson collapsed after being punched, exhibiting seizure-like symptoms. Disturbingly, no one present called 911 or attempted to get immediate medical assistance.
Wilson was later transported to Baton Rouge General Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Investigators confirmed that the vehicle used to transport Wilson was registered to Smith, who was also identified as the fraternity’s Dean of Pledges and the individual seen on surveillance video removing Wilson from the car.
The arrest warrant also revealed that Wilson’s clothing had been changed before his arrival at the hospital.
The investigation remains active, with police indicating the possibility of further arrests. While McCray has been released on bond, information regarding Smith and Thurman’s status is currently unavailable. All three individuals have been identified as members of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.