Baton Rouge, LA — In a tragic turn of events linked to fraternity hazing, Southern University and the larger Baton Rouge community are mourning the death of 20-year-old student Caleb Wilson, who was majoring in mechanical engineering and played in the acclaimed Human Jukebox marching band. Caleb McCray, 23, has been arrested on manslaughter and criminal hazing charges following Wilson’s death on February 27.
McCray surrendered to authorities on Thursday, and Baton Rouge police have identified additional suspects who are expected to turn themselves in. At a press conference, Police Chief TJ Morse confirmed that Wilson’s fatal injuries resulted from a hazing incident involving repeated blows to the chest during his attempt to pledge Omega Psi Phi fraternity.
Louisiana has toughened its stance on hazing following the death of Max Gruver in 2017, who died after being forced to consume lethal amounts of alcohol in a fraternity initiation at Louisiana State University. In response to this incident and others, the state’s laws now encompass severe penalties for hazing.
Southern University has taken swift action against the fraternity involved, with President Dennis Shields declaring a cessation of all fraternity activities. He also mentioned that the university is conducting disciplinary proceedings for other students implicated in the incident.
Mayor Sid Edwards, expressing his condolences and concern at the news conference, called for better decision-making from young people in the community. He highlighted the tragedy of losing a young man with significant potential in such a senseless manner.
Following Wilson’s drop-off at a local hospital by a group claiming he had collapsed while playing basketball, detectives unraveled the true circumstances surrounding his injuries. The incident occurred three miles away in a warehouse, not at a public park as initially claimed by those who left him at the hospital.
An arrest warrant affidavit revealed that McCray and at least two others, equipped with boxing gloves, struck Wilson and other pledges multiple times. Following the assault, Wilson collapsed and showed signs of a severe physical reaction.
Phillip Robinson, McCray’s attorney, has publicly stated his intent to closely scrutinize the evidence and ensure a fair process for his client. Under Louisiana law, manslaughter can lead to up to 40 years in prison, and criminal hazing carries a maximum sentence of five years.
Prior to attending Southern, Wilson was a celebrated trumpet player at Warren Easton High School in New Orleans, and he had performed at high-profile venues, including the NFL Super Bowl on February 9 in New Orleans.
Wilson’s death has drawn attention from significant figures including Gayle Benson, owner of New Orleans’s professional sports teams, where Wilson’s father works as security. She expressed deep sorrow over the “senseless passing.”
In memory of Wilson, a second line parade, a traditional New Orleans musical tribute, was held in his honor. Friends and family remembered him not only for his musical talent but for his spirited and generous personality.