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Madison police are investigating an alleged fraternity hazing incident after officers found around 30 partially clothed men in the basement of an Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity house near the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus on September 23. Two 20-year-old fraternity leaders were arrested in connection with the investigation.
The Brief
Madison Police Department officers were sent to the Alpha Epsilon Pi residence in the 100 block of Langdon Street at about 8:20 p.m. Wednesday after receiving an anonymous tip about a possible hazing event.
Inside the basement, officers found around 30 men who were partially clothed and covered in food, condiments and other liquids, according to the police incident report. Most of those present were 18 years old.
Police also reported that several of the men had visible injuries consistent with being physically assaulted. The basement was described as hot and humid, with a thermostat set to 81 degrees.
Officers determined the event was unlawful and escorted everyone from the basement. The pledges were then checked for injuries and signs of incapacitation.
What We Know
Police identified the two people arrested as Brayden J. Klein and Samuel N. Vane, both 20. According to Madison police, Klein and Vane were the president and vice president of the fraternity and were arrested on allegations of hazing and disorderly conduct. Both were taken to the Dane County Jail.
The fraternity involved is not recognized by UW–Madison. University officials said the organization’s status was terminated in 2015. The university describes unrecognized organizations as groups operating independently of UW–Madison and outside its student-organization policies and regulations.
UW–Madison also clarified that the chapter continues to be recognized by its national organization, Alpha Epsilon Pi, meaning it is legally able to operate as a fraternity chapter unaffiliated with the university.
The university said its Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards will investigate any students implicated in the incident through its nonacademic misconduct process. University officials also said they met with national Alpha Epsilon Pi representatives to review the incident and discuss follow-up actions.
What’s Next
The Madison Police Department said the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident, including people who were involved, to contact Madison Area Crime Stoppers.
UW–Madison said it remains committed to preventing and addressing hazing and is providing support through university resources to students who may need assistance. The university also encouraged students and community members to report hazing incidents.
The arrests are allegations, and the investigation remains ongoing. Additional information may be released as police and university officials continue reviewing the incident.
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