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Source: Wilson Family / Courtesy of Wilson Family
A Southern University student and member of its “Human Jukebox” marching band is dead, allegedly after a fraternity ritual off-campus.
According to reports, a student at Southern University died after taking part in a fraternity-related ritual off-campus early Thursday morning (Feb. 27). The student was identified as Caleb Wilson of Kenner, Louisiana. The group had been gathered at the North Sherwood Forest Community Park, not far from the HBCU’s Baton Rouge campus, when Wilson collapsed during a ritual where participants were standing in line. He was pronounced dead at 3:15 a.m. after being brought to Baton Rouge General Hospital on Bluebonnet Boulevard, leading hospital authorities to call the police, as the death was “suspicious in nature.” Baton Rouge police are continuing to investigate the death, pending results from the autopsy.

Southern University’s Division of Student Affairs sent out a notice declaring that all new membership activities on campus including fraternities, sororities, and student clubs would be paused indefinitely until further notice. The directive specifically points to prohibiting any rushes or interest meetings, initiation processes, and any induction of new members. It has been alleged, but unconfirmed, that Wilson was pledging to the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. The fraternity, along with all the other D9 organizations, have long banned pledging or hazing as a requirement for entry.
“It is with profound sorrow that we extend our condolences on the passing of Caleb Wilson. His loss is deeply felt, and our hearts go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by him,” said Ricky L. Lewis, Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. in a statement shared on Friday, February 28. He added, “We have been informed that the local authorities have launched an investigation into this tragic incident, and we fully support their efforts to seek the truth. Currently, our foremost priority is standing in unwavering support of Caleb’s family. We have extended ourselves to them and are ready to assist in any way possible during this difficult time.”

The 20-year-old was a mechanical engineering student and trumpet player, affectionately nicknamed “Cheese” by fellow members of the Human Jukebox, the university’s famed marching band. “He was always smiling,” senior and bandmate Lonnie Robinson said of Wilson, who he first befriended at a summer band camp. “He just had the best sense of humor.”
Wilson’s father, Corey Wilson, is a high-ranking member of law enforcement who works part-time with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, having recently retired last year at the rank of sergeant. He also served as part of the security detail for New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson.

Benson offered her condolences to the family 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,” Benson said, adding: “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.”