Columbus, Ohio — A video that quickly spread on social media showing two men on fire at a fraternity house prompted Ohio State University to place Sigma Alpha Epsilon on interim suspension while authorities investigate, according to HuffPost.
The footage depicts one individual in sweatpants whose clothing ignites; he then lunges at a second individual, tackling him to the ground. Both men’s clothing catches fire as they roll on the ground, removing their garments while several onlookers intervene to help.
University spokesperson Benjamin Johnson said Ohio State has referred the matter to both university officials and Columbus police. “The university is aware of this extremely concerning incident, and the individuals in question are receiving medical care,” Johnson said in a statement. “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.”
Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert confirmed the incident appears to have occurred on Saturday. Police did not receive any calls for service at the location at the time, but a call was made Sunday evening after the video began circulating online.
Steve Mitchell, chief executive officer of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, condemned the behavior, stating that actions violating the fraternity’s high standards have no place in the organization. “We take this matter seriously and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident while working closely with university officials and local law enforcement,” Mitchell said.
Ohio State’s Columbus campus enrolls more than 60,000 students, making the safety of its community a paramount concern. The university’s interim suspension of the fraternity signals a swift response aimed at preserving campus order while the investigation proceeds.
Authorities have not released further details about the identities of the individuals involved or any potential charges. The investigation remains ongoing, and the university has not indicated a timeline for when the fraternity might be reinstated.
Residents and students are advised to stay informed through official university communications and local law‑enforcement updates as the case develops.
Sources: huffpost.com
