Ohio State halts Sigma Alpha Epsilon after viral video of men on fire
The university referred the incident to Columbus police after two members were seen engulfed in flames during a Saturday event.
By Ella Cox ·
Two students at Ohio State University received medical care after a video showed them engulfed in flames during a Saturday gathering. The footage, which has circulated on social media, captures one man with burning sweatpants tackling a second individual. The second man's clothing also ignites, and both roll on the ground to remove their garments while onlookers intervene. The incident has triggered an interim suspension for the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at the Columbus campus.
University spokesperson Benjamin Johnson confirmed the suspension and stated that the individuals are receiving medical care. Johnson noted that Ohio State is committed to a safe and healthy environment and expects student organizations to uphold that commitment. The university has referred the matter to both university and Columbus police for investigation.
Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert said the incident appears to have taken place on Saturday. Police did not receive a call for service at the location at the time. A call came in on Sunday evening reporting that the video was circulating online, which prompted the official response. The university serves more than 60,000 students at its Columbus campus.
Steve Mitchell, CEO of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, stated that behavior violating the organization's high standards has no place in its ranks. He said the group is taking the matter seriously and is actively investigating the circumstances. The fraternity is working closely with university officials and local law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable based on the findings.
The investigation is ongoing as university and police authorities review the available evidence. The fraternity remains suspended from activities while these inquiries proceed.
