Ohio State suspends fraternity after video shows two individuals on fire

The Ohio State University put Sigma Alpha Epsilon on interim suspension while the college investigates an online video showing two individuals set on fire.

The video on X appears to show one individual whose pants were on fire lunging at a second person, catching him on fire as well. One person is seen with a fire extinguisher trying to help while the two on fire start rolling on the ground and taking their clothes off.

A statement from the university said the individuals are receiving medical treatment and law enforcement is involved.

“The university is aware of this extremely concerning incident, and the individuals in question are receiving needed medical care,” Ben Johnson, spokesperson for the university, said in a statement.

“The university has made referrals to university police and Columbus police, and city law enforcement is investigating. Ohio State is committed to a safe and healthy environment and expects students and student organizations to uphold that commitment and the university’s values,” he added.

The video took place at a party hosted by the fraternity, The Columbus Dispatch reported . The party was not at the main fraternity house but a nearby property.

No details were provided on the extent of the injuries.

“Sigma Alpha Epsilon is aware of a concerning video involving an incident at The Ohio State University. We take this matter seriously and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident while working closely with university officials and local law enforcement,” Steve Mitchell, CEO of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, said in a statement.

“Sigma Alpha Epsilon holds its collegiate members to high standards of conduct and accountability. Behavior that violates these standards has no place in our organization. We are committed to holding those responsible accountable and will take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation,” he added.

It is the second fraternity to come under fire at Ohio State this year after Phi Kappa Alpha was suspended earlier in the year due to hazing allegations that landed a student in the hospital, The Columbus Dispatch reported.

The latest incident comes as fraternities have been under a microscope since the alleged gang rape at Chi Phi fraternity at Cornell University.