Photo: Southern University Human Jukebox
A Southern University student was found dead after participating in a fraternity ritual off campus.
According to reports, the 20-year-old student, identified as Caleb Wilson, collapsed while members of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity were carrying out a ritual where pledges stand in line.
A group of friends reportedly brought an unresponsive Wilson from North Sherwood Community Park to Baton Rouge General Hospital on Thursday (February 27). Wilson was pronounced dead at roughly 3:15 a.m.
Baton Rouge Police have launched an investigation into the student’s death. An autopsy is being performed to determine Wilson’s cause of death.
University officials released a statement, saying they are putting an indefinite pause on all membership activities on campus in the wake of Wilson’s death.
“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 statement reads.”Southern is cooperating fully with the Baton Rouge Police Department, which is in charge of the investigation. No further information is available at this time.”
The school noted that counseling services are available for its students, faculty, and staff.
Wilson was also a member of the Southern University Human Jukebox. The renowned band released a statement mourning the loss of its trumpet player in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
“With heavy hearts, we share the devastating loss of one of our own, Caleb Wilson, a beloved member of the Southern University Human Jukebox and an incredible part of our Jaguar family,” the statement reads. “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.”
Honoring the Life of Caleb Wilson 🕊️💙💛
With heavy hearts, we share the devastating loss of one of our own, Caleb Wilson, a beloved member of the Southern University Human Jukebox and an incredible part of our Jaguar family.
A talented trumpet player, a dedicated student, and… pic.twitter.com/JMgVeO2GDu
— Southern University Human Jukebox (@SU_HumanJukebox) February 28, 2025
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