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Ohio State University has suspended the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity after a widely shared video showed two people engulfed in flames surrounded by onlookers near the campus, prompting investigations by university officials and local police. The incident appears to have occurred on Saturday (November 7) in a neighborhood known for Greek life houses, including the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter.
The video, which circulated on social media over the weekend, begins with one individual on the ground with their legs on fire while people in Ohio State jerseys look on. A bystander tries unsuccessfully to use a fire extinguisher before the person on fire collides with another individual, whose clothing also ignites. Several onlookers then step in and attempt to extinguish the flames by stomping and pulling the burning clothes off the victims.
Both individuals received medical care for their burns. A spokesperson for Columbus Fire told WSYX that the men were taken to the hospital in a private vehicle and were stable as of Monday (November 9).
University spokesperson Benjamin Johnson said Sigma Alpha Epsilon was placed on interim suspension while the investigation continues and that the case has been referred to university and Columbus police. "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," Johnson stated, according to ABC News.
Columbus Police Sergeant Joe Albert said that police were not called to the scene on Saturday, but the department was notified on Sunday (November 8) once the video began to spread online. The police are working with the university and the Columbus Division of Fire’s Arson Unit to determine if any criminal activity occurred.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon national CEO Steve Mitchell told ABC News, "We take this matter seriously and are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident while working closely with university officials and local law enforcement." He added that behavior violating the fraternity’s standards will result in appropriate action.
The exact cause of the fire remains unclear, and authorities are continuing their investigation. No criminal charges have been filed at this time.