Southern University Student Dies After Collapsing In Alleged Off-Campus Fraternity Ritual

A Southern University student had died during an off-campus incident. According to local news station WAFB 9, Caleb Wilson collapsed while participating as a pledge member in an alleged ritual for the Omega Psi Phi fraternity at the North Sherwood Forest Community Park in Baton Rouge, La. The 20-year-old was unresponsive when he was brought to Baton Rouge General Hospital and pronounced dead on Thursday morning (Feb. 27).

According to the East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s Office, the cause and manner of death are currently undetermined, and an investigation has been launched. Southern University Division of Student Affairs issued a statement putting an indefinite pause to all membership activities on campus, including fraternities, sororities, and student clubs, until further notice.

“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,” relayed a statement issued by the HBCU.

“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.”

According to Nola.com, Wilson was a native to Kenner, La. and a member of the university’s famed Human Jukebox marching band. At Southern, he majored in mechanical engineering and was a member of the Nu Phi Omicron music fraternity. He attended Warren Easton High School in New Orleans and was a member of The Roots of Music Marching Crusaders band.

“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,” reads an Instagram post on the band’s official account.

“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.”

Wilson’s father, Corey Wilson, retired from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in 2024 after working there for 35 years, reports USA Today. The office issued a statement following his son’s death:

“On behalf of Sheriff Joseph Lopinto, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office extends its condolences to Deputy Corey Wilson and his family following the heartbreaking loss of his son,” the statement reads. “The JPSO stands in support of Dep. Wilson and his family. We ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn this unimaginable loss.”

Corey Wilson also worked security details for Gayle Benson, the New Orleans Saints owner.

“Today, we are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Caleb Wilson, a very bright, young Southern University student. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the entire Southern University community during this incredibly difficult time,” Benson shared in a statement. “This tragic loss has hit very close to my heart as his father, (Sgt.) Corey Wilson has worked with our team for many years. I have a deep and personal connection to his family. We mourn with him today on this senseless passing, our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking loss.”

VIBE sends its condolences to Caleb Wilson’s family, friends, and the campus students of Southern University.