Ohio State suspends fraternity after fire incident
Columbus police are investigating a Saturday event near campus where two men were engulfed in flames.
By Isaac Medina ·
Ohio State University placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension on Monday following a video that showed two men on fire near campus. The university referred the matter to local law enforcement to determine if criminal acts occurred.
Columbus police identified the location as the 1900 block of Indianola Avenue. The incident took place on Saturday, November 7. No one called police to the scene that day. The department learned of the event the following evening when the university and a private citizen alerted them to the viral video.
Footage circulating on social media shows a man in a sweatshirt and sweatpants lying on the ground with flames covering his lower body. A crowd surrounds him, and several people appear to hold drinks. The man stands and runs across an open area. He collides with a second man wearing similar clothing. Both fall to the ground, and the second man's clothing catches fire.
Both men attempt to remove their burning clothes. One jumps while pulling off his sweatpants. Another person stomps on the flames. The second man falls, removes his sweatpants, and rolls on the ground while others try to smother the fire with their own clothing. A voice in the crowd shouts, "Take them off."
Ben Johnson, an Ohio State spokesperson, stated that the individuals involved are receiving medical care. It remained unclear on Monday how serious their injuries were. The university is awaiting the results of a full investigation before making further decisions regarding the chapter.
Investigators are working with the Columbus Division of Fire's Arson Unit. Sgt. Joe Albert of the Columbus Division of Police confirmed the department is examining the video to understand the sequence of events. The national organization for Sigma Alpha Epsilon is also reviewing the case.
CEO Steve Mitchell said the group is actively investigating the circumstances. He noted that the fraternity holds members to high standards of conduct and accountability. The national body stated it will take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.
