Hazing Tragedy Sparks Call for Action at Southern University

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – The recent hazing death of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old Southern University student, has ignited urgent discussions about the prevalence and dangers of hazing within Greek life, particularly at Southern University.

Dr. Duronne Walker, a Southern University alumnus who was left paralyzed and blind due to a fraternity hazing incident 35 years ago, is sharing his harrowing story following Wilson’s death to raise awareness about the serious consequences of hazing.

In a recent interview, Dr. Walker recounted his experience when he was a 22-year-old pledge for the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity. As part of a brutal initiation during what he referred to as “hell week,” he was blindfolded, struck with a frying pan, and forced to consume tainted alcohol. The combination of head trauma and the substance in the drink resulted in a stroke, leaving him incapacitated.

“That one night changed my entire life,” Dr. Walker said. “Thirty-five years later I’m still wondering why? And how? And for what? This young man Caleb, at the same university, different fraternity, is dead.”

Dr. Walker expressed his disbelief that such incidents continue to occur despite decades of advocacy against hazing. “Fraternities and sororities are supposed to promote brotherhood and sisterhood. How can you kill a young man to become your brother?”

Walker’s daughter, Kennedi, now nearly 30 years old, reflected on the impact of her father’s experience on her life. “All because he wanted to join an organization that should promote brotherhood and sisterhood,” Kennedi said. “Hazing happens every single day behind closed doors. It’s time for universities to reveal the truth and take this seriously—not just when someone dies.”

Both Dr. Walker and Kennedi emphasized the urgency for universities to take accountability and implement measures that will prevent hazing incidents from occurring in the future. “We need to keep this conversation going,” Kennedi said. “Change shouldn’t come only after a tragedy.”