The tragic death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old mechanical engineering junior at Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, has brought renewed attention to the dangers of fraternity hazing and the legal avenues available to affected families. Wilson, a member of the university’s renowned Human Jukebox marching band, died on February 27, 2025, following an alleged hazing ritual associated with the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.
Initial reports indicated that Wilson collapsed during an off-campus fraternity ritual at North Sherwood Forest Community Park. However, subsequent investigations revealed that the event took place in a warehouse, where Wilson was allegedly punched in the chest as part of the initiation process. He reportedly had a seizure after being punched in the chest. Fraternity members initially misled authorities about the location and circumstances of the incident, delaying critical medical intervention.
Legal Rights for Hazing Victims and Their Families in Louisiana
Louisiana has some of the toughest anti-hazing laws in the country, including the Max Gruver Act, which makes hazing a felony if it results in serious injury or death. Under Louisiana law, victims and families can pursue wrongful death and personal injury lawsuits against individuals, fraternities, universities, and housing corporations that allowed or enabled hazing. These claims seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, emotional suffering, and other damages.
Universities and fraternities have a legal duty to prevent hazing, and failure to do so may result in civil liability for negligence. Even if criminal charges are filed against perpetrators, victims can still pursue civil lawsuits to hold institutions accountable. Taking legal action not only helps victims and families recover financial damages but also pushes for institutional reform to prevent future tragedies. If you or a loved one has been affected by hazing in Louisiana, visit our Louisiana Hazing Law Page to learn more about your legal options and how our firm can help.
Doug Fierberg and Jonathon Fazzola: Nationally Recognized Attorneys for Hazing and School Violence Cases
Doug Fierberg and Jonathon Fazzola are distinguished attorneys with over five decades of combined experience, specializing in representing victims of school violence, hazing, sexual assault, and other misconduct nationwide. Doug and Jonathon have successfully litigated numerous high-profile hazing cases, securing justice for victims and driving institutional change. Notable hazing cases include:
- University of Maryland Hazing Lawsuit (1997): Represented Joseph J. Snell, a former student who suffered severe injuries during a hazing ritual by Omega Psi Phi fraternity members. The jury awarded Mr. Snell $375,000 in damages.
- Lane College Hazing Case (2020): Represented Deaudric Halmon, a student who alleged violent hazing by members of a fraternity at Lane College, an HBCU in Jackson. The Tennessee Court of Appeals allowed the lawsuit to proceed against the fraternity and the college.
- Max Gruver Hazing Case (2017) – Represented the family of Max Gruver, an LSU freshman who died during a Phi Delta Theta fraternity hazing ritual with a blood-alcohol level of 0.495%. The lawsuit held LSU, the fraternity, and individual members accountable, resulting in a $6.1 million jury verdict. The case also contributed to the passage of the Max Gruver Act, making hazing a felony in Louisiana.
These cases highlight the importance of legal action in holding institutions accountable and ensuring student safety. If your loved one has been affected by hazing, our firm is prepared to advocate for justice on your behalf.
Take Action – Speak with a Hazing Attorney Today
The Fierberg National Law Firm has successfully pursued legal action against national fraternities, local chapters, universities, housing corporations, and individuals responsible for hazing-related harm. We have secured millions in compensation for victims, driven policy reforms, and helped establish legal precedents that protect students. Our efforts have also compelled universities and fraternities to disclose the risks of hazing and fund independent organizations dedicated to education and prevention.
We are here to help. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Call us at (877) 927-4321 or fill out our online form.
The sooner you take action, the stronger your case can be. Let us fight for the justice your family deserves.
