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Student Dies at NAU Rush Event; Leaders Arrested
2 Feb
Summary
- An 18-year-old NAU student died at a fraternity rush event.
- Three fraternity leaders were arrested on hazing charges.
- Alcohol was reportedly consumed by attendees at the gathering.
A Northern Arizona University student, aged 18, died early Saturday morning at an off-campus residence linked to the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. The student had reportedly attended a fraternity rush event the previous evening where alcohol consumption was reported among attendees.
Following the discovery of the unresponsive student, life-saving measures were administered by bystanders and police, but the student was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Coconino County Medical Examiner's Office is conducting an autopsy to establish the cause and manner of death.
In connection with the incident, three 20-year-old students—identified as Carter Eslick, Ryan Creech, and Riley Cass—who serve on the Delta Tau Delta fraternity's executive board, have been arrested on criminal hazing charges. They were booked into the Coconino County Detention Facility.
Northern Arizona University has suspended the Delta Tau Delta fraternity to facilitate a thorough investigation and to prioritize student safety. The university emphasized its commitment to student well-being and stated that hazing and dangerous behaviors are not tolerated on campus.
The Delta Tau Delta International Fraternity expressed deep sadness regarding the event and has placed the local chapter on interim suspension, prohibiting all activities pending internal and external investigation outcomes. The international fraternity reiterated its firm stance against hazing, calling it contrary to their values.
