Two Hazing Lawsuits Involving Omega Psi Phi

The parents of Southern University student Caleb Wilson filed a wrongful-death and survival-damages suit in East Baton Rouge Parish alleging negligence, gross negligence and intentional conduct after Wilson collapsed and later died following an unsanctioned off‑campus pledging ritual on Feb. 27 in which he was reportedly punched repeatedly in the chest. The complaint names Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., the Beta Sigma and Lambda Alpha chapters, the Board of Supervisors of Southern University and more than a dozen individuals — including Caleb M. McCray, Kyle M. Thurman and Isaiah E. Smith — and alleges fraternity members delayed contacting emergency services, provided false information and failed to prevent illegal hazing; Southern expelled the Beta Sigma chapter after an internal investigation. Separately, former University of Southern Mississippi student Rafeal Joseph filed a federal lawsuit against USM, the Nu Eta chapter of Omega Psi Phi, national fraternity leaders and university officials including Associate Director Valencia Walls, saying hazing that began in December 2022 culminated in an April 16–17, 2023 “Hell Night” in which he was beaten with a wooden paddle, required surgery and a blood transfusion, spent nearly 11 days hospitalized and had to relearn to walk. Joseph’s attorneys say university officials were aware of the abuse and did not act, and photos included with the filing document extensive injuries; both universities and the fraternity organizations have declined detailed comment as the matters proceed in court.