Clemson University Suspends Fraternity Activities After Student Death
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iStock/Thinkstock(COLUMBIA, S.C.) — A South Carolina university is suspending all fraternity activity following the death of a student.
Officials at Clemson University put a hold on all “social and new-member initiation activities” for 24 fraternities, citing “several recent reports of violations of the law or student conduct code.”
The decision comes after student Tucker Hipps was found dead in a lake Monday after “an early morning group activity run” with fraternity members, according to school officials. Hipps was reported missing Monday afternoon, with police discovering his body near Highway 93 nearly two hours after the initial call.
“It is especially prudent to suspend fraternity activities given the tragic death of Tucker Hipps. There has been a high number of reports of serious incidents involving fraternity activities, ranging from alcohol-related medical emergencies to sexual misconduct,” said Student Affairs Vice President Gail DiSabatino. “These behaviors are unacceptable and mandate swift and effective action to protect students. There is no higher priority than the safety and welfare of our students.”
The incident is under investigation by local law enforcement, while the university is looking into any school violations.
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