FLAGSTAFF ARIZONA, Three fraternity members have been arrested after an 18-year-old student died following attendance at a rush event, as a hazing investigation remains underway.
The student was found unresponsive on South Pine Grove Road in Flagstaff on January 31, hours after he allegedly attended an event as a pledge at the Northern Arizona University chapter of Delta Tau Delta.
Lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said alcohol consumption was reported, and the deceased student was among those who had been drinking.
Carter Eslick, 20, the fraternity’s new member educator; Ryan Creech, 20, the fraternity vice president; and Riley Cass, 20, the fraternity treasurer, have been taken into custody by the Flagstaff Police Department.
Northern Arizona University issued a statement expressing condolences.
“This is a devastating loss, and our hearts are with his family, friends and all members of our community who are grieving,” NAU said.
“We want to be clear: The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priorities. Violence, hazing or any other behavior that endangers others has no place at NAU.”
The university said it is reviewing the matter, and Delta Tau Delta has been temporarily suspended to allow a full investigation.
Counseling and support resources have been made available to students, faculty, and staff.
Delta Tau Delta, one of many fraternities at NAU, was reinstalled in 2022 after being inactive for several years, according to the national fraternity’s website.
The chapter originally operated at NAU from 2000 to 2016 before closing due to low membership.
Delta Tau Delta chapters at other universities have faced disciplinary actions in recent years at schools including Tulane and Ohio.
