Ohio State Fraternity Suspended After Viral Video Shows Men on Fire

An Ohio State University fraternity is currently under interim suspension following the emergence of a viral video that depicts two young men on fire.

The incident, which took place in a backyard on Indianola Avenue, has prompted an investigation as authorities work to determine if criminal acts occurred.

According to reporting from WXIX, the incident occurred Saturday, shortly before the Ohio State football game against Oregon. The footage shows a crowd of people, many dressed in Ohio State football clothing, gathered in a circle as the situation escalated.

One young man is seen on the ground with his pants on fire; he eventually rises and tackles another individual, at which point both men are seen on fire while the surrounding crowd laughs and cheers.

The Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity is the organization currently facing scrutiny. In a statement provided to WXIX, Steve Mitchell acknowledged that the organization is aware of the situation.

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

Ohio State University fraternity suspended after video shows 2 men on fire

The investigation involves the Columbus police and the Columbus Division of Fire’s Arson Unit, which are reviewing the footage to determine if criminal acts occurred.

In the video, the immediate aftermath shows several onlookers rushing toward the two men to extinguish the fires by stomping, kicking, and pulling at their clothing. During the process, one of the men had his burning garments ripped away, leaving him naked on the ground.

Ohio State University fraternity suspended due to bodily harm allegations

The university has placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension while the investigation proceeds. The fraternity’s statement noted that they hold collegiate members to high standards of conduct and accountability, adding that behavior that violates these standards has no place in their organization.

The university is working with local law enforcement as the investigation continues.

The situation remains fluid, with police focusing on the incident.

The university’s next steps will likely depend on the findings of the investigation. For now, the suspension remains in effect as the institution balances its commitment to student accountability with the requirements of an active police investigation.