A fraternity at a New Jersey university was abruptly closed last week in the wake of an alleged hazing episode that resulted in a student sustaining severe injuries.
The Rutgers University chapter of Alpha Sigma Phi was shut down on October 22, just a week after a 19-year-old student was discovered unresponsive at the fraternity’s off-campus residence in New Brunswick. According to The Daily Targum, this closure followed a history of safety violations, including hazards such as exposed wiring and blocked exits.
It was reported that the student’s injuries were linked to exposed electrical wires and water. Gordy Heminger, a representative of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, Inc., confirmed to NJ.com that the chapter was closed specifically due to hazing activities.
On October 15, law enforcement arrived at the fraternity house following an emergency call that was made and swiftly disconnected. Officers on the scene found the teen unresponsive, who subsequently spent several days in the hospital in critical condition.
According to Patch, a Middlesex County prosecutor has stated that the student’s condition has improved, and he is no longer considered to be in critical condition.
While specific details are still emerging, officials disclosed that the incident took place in the basement. News12 revealed that the fraternity house was eventually condemned, although the precise reasons for this decision remain unclear.
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the October 15 incident.
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