An 18-year-old student from Northern Arizona University (NAU) was found dead following an off-campus fraternity gathering, prompting the arrest of three fraternity members on charges of hazing. This tragic incident raises critical questions about student safety and the culture surrounding fraternities in college settings.
As colleges grapple with issues related to hazing, the events in Flagstaff underscore the potential consequences of such actions. With Arizona having recently criminalized hazing, the scrutiny on Greek life continues to intensify, impacting not only those directly involved but also the broader university community.
Key Developments
- The student was discovered unresponsive on January 31, 2026, after attending a “rush” event for the Delta Tau Delta fraternity.
- Three members of the fraternity, Carter Eslick, Riley Cass, and Ryan Creech, have been arrested and charged with hazing.
- The investigation into the cause of the student’s death is ongoing.
- NAU has suspended the Delta Tau Delta fraternity chapter pending further investigation.
Full Report
According to the Flagstaff Police Department, officers responded to reports of an unresponsive male student at a residence on South Pine Grove Road around 8:45 a.m. on Saturday. Bystanders initiated CPR before law enforcement arrived, but the student was pronounced dead on the scene shortly after their arrival.
The deceased student had attended a fraternity event the previous evening where alcohol was allegedly consumed. This prompted an investigation that led to the arrests of three fraternity members. Police charged the individuals with hazing, a behavior characterized by the potential endangerment of individuals during organizational initiation rites.
In a statement, NAU expressed deep condolences, identifying the tragedy as a “devastating loss” and extending support to the student’s family and friends. The university further emphasized its commitment to student safety, confirming the suspension of the Delta Tau Delta chapter to facilitate a thorough investigation.
Arizona’s recent legislation, known as Jack’s Law, classifies hazing as a criminal offense, subjecting offenders to serious penalties, thus highlighting the state’s stance on this critical issue.
Context & Previous Events
The concept of hazing, which includes coercive and potentially dangerous activities for new members of organizations, has faced increasing legal scrutiny. Jack’s Law was enacted in 2022, specifically addressing the repercussions faced by offenders in hazing incidents. This incident adds to the ongoing discourse regarding the safety practices associated with fraternity life at colleges and universities across the nation.
