Ohio State 911 Call About Frat Pledges Being Set on Fire in Video Released
Caller Describes Video
In a Sunday call to a Columbus Division of Police dispatcher, a woman reported seeing a 35-second video connected to a gathering linked to Sigma Alpha Epsilon. She said it had circulated in a sorority group chat and that she was not at the gathering.
University Suspends Fraternity
Ben Johnson, an Ohio State University spokesperson, said Sigma Alpha Epsilon had been placed on interim suspension while the university investigates. He said the people involved were receiving medical care. Johnson described the incident as extremely concerning and said the university expects students and student organizations to support a safe and healthy environment and uphold its values.
National Organization Responds
Steve Mitchell, CEO of the national Sigma Alpha Epsilon organization, said it knew about the video and was working with university officials and authorities. He said the organization would take appropriate action based on the investigation’s findings and seek accountability for those responsible.
Broader Fraternity Debate
Fraternity culture has drawn national attention after the Cornell 7 case. It involves a woman accusing seven male members of Cornell University’s Chi Phi chapter of gang rape.
Key points
- Police released a 911 call about a video showing two men at a fraternity-linked gathering in Ohio.
- Ohio State placed Sigma Alpha Epsilon on interim suspension while investigating.
- The national fraternity said it was working with university officials and authorities.