Two men hospitalized after flames engulf them during campus altercation
Ohio State University suspended its Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter Sunday after a video showed two individuals catching fire near campus.
By Sakura Ellis ·
Two individuals were transported to a hospital in stable condition after their clothing caught fire during an altercation outside an Ohio State University residence. The university placed its Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter on interim suspension on Sunday night following the incident, which occurred Saturday in the 1900 block of Indianola Avenue.
The event unfolded over a span of hours. Footage of the incident emerged online on Sunday, prompting Columbus police to investigate the Saturday event. Officers had received no initial calls for service regarding the specific location on Saturday night. The delay in the police response highlights the gap between the physical event and its digital amplification.
Video evidence depicts two people wrestling on the pavement. Flames first appear on the pants of one individual, who then moves toward the second person. The fire subsequently spreads to the second individual's clothing. A bystander attempts to extinguish the flames with a fire extinguisher but is unsuccessful. Other onlookers intervene, stomping out the fire and assisting in the removal of the burning garments.
Columbus fire officials confirmed that both men sustained burn injuries. They were taken to a medical facility in a private vehicle rather than by ambulance. The university verified that the two individuals are receiving medical care. Both the Columbus Division of Fire and university police are currently reviewing the circumstances.
Law enforcement is coordinating with the Columbus Division of Fire’s Arson Unit to determine if criminal acts took place. Ohio State University has not confirmed whether the incident constitutes hazing, nor has it announced specific charges. The university referred the matter to both its internal police force and the local municipal police department.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon national CEO Steve Mitchell stated that the fraternity is working with university officials and local law enforcement. The national organization pledged to take appropriate action once its own investigation concludes. It emphasized that members are expected to meet specific standards for conduct and accountability.
The university’s Interfraternity Council announced plans to review its risk management practices and safety education requirements. The student-led body encouraged the campus community to report concerning behavior, including suspected hazing. It also directed students to available counseling and mental health resources. No additional details regarding the cause of the fire have been released.
