The Caleb Wilson Foundation has launched a new anti-hunger campaign in honor of a beloved college student whose life was tragically cut short. Wilson’s death brought national attention to the issue of hazing on college campuses. The initiative focuses on education, awareness and prevention aimed at protecting students and ensuring that no other family is affected by the Wilsons’ loss.
Wilson died after pledging Omega Psi Phi Fratnity, Inc., after an unauthorized fraternity ritual in which he was exposed during the ceremony and covered with a report drawn on his chest and forced to lease. Reports state that the fists represent the four cardinal principles of the fraternity—masculinity, scholarship, perseverance, and promotion. After being punched repeatedly in the chest, Wilson fell to the ground and began to seize. He was later taken to a nearby hospital where he died. The members of the fraternity were first introduced to the story of a collapse in a park after a basketball game.
Caleb McCray, Kyle Thurman and Isaiah Smith were charged in connection with Wilson’s death. According to the report, McCray was charged with felony murder, which resulted in the punch that killed Wilson.
The Beta Sigma chapter of Omega PSI Phi was indefinitely expelled from the Southern University campus in response to the incident. Wilson’s family filed a lawsuit against the fraternity and the university for wrongful death and life damages. On FOX 8 Live in September, Wilson’s Omega Psi Phi Fratnity, Inc., Inc., Beta Sigma and Lambda Alpha Chapters and Southern University and A&M College Trustees and A&M College Board of Trustees, as suspects.
Wilson’s claim alleges negligence, gross negligence and willful conduct. The lawsuit also alleged that “the fraternities failed to supervise their members and prevent their unlawful hazing and that the university failed in its duty to protect students from prejudicial harm.” Wilson’s family is seeking compensation for his death, any pain or suffering suffered on or before his death, and funeral expenses.
Wilson was a junior engineering major who was a member of Kenner, Louisiana and Southern University’s Human Jukebox Marting group. Billboards Honor Wilson will be displayed between Kenner and New Orleans during Bayou Classic Week.
