Rutgers University Fraternity Shut Down After Hazing Incident
A fraternity at Rutgers University has been permanently closed following a serious hazing incident that left a 19-year-old student critically injured. The chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi was under investigation after police were called to the fraternity house on October 15, 2023. Upon arrival, officers found the student unresponsive and quickly transported him to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital for urgent medical care.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, suffered electrocution after making contact with exposed electrical wires in the basement of the fraternity house, which was reportedly combined with water. A second student also experienced shock from the exposed wires, but his injuries were less severe, according to reports from NJ.com. The injured student has shown improvement since being admitted to the hospital.
Details surrounding the incident have raised concerns about the condition of the fraternity house, located at 106 College Avenue in New Brunswick, New Jersey. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs reported that the building has a troubling history of safety violations, including exposed wiring, missing fire alarms, obstructed exits, and pest infestations. A recent inspection on September 18, 2023, identified 19 safety violations.
Despite the fraternity’s claims of poor maintenance contributing to the incident, the national organization of Alpha Sigma Phi stated that hazing was directly involved. Gordy Heminger, president of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., confirmed that hazing did occur, leading to the chapter’s closure. He stated that any members found responsible for the hazing would be expelled from the fraternity.
Hazing practices are prohibited by both the university’s policies and New Jersey state law. The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office is currently investigating the incident and is considering potential criminal charges against those involved. The fraternity’s closure underscores a growing commitment to addressing and preventing hazing in academic institutions across the country.
As the investigation continues, Rutgers University has reiterated its dedication to maintaining a safe environment for all students, emphasizing that such incidents will not be tolerated.
