An 18-year-old Northern Arizona University student died from alcohol poisoning after consuming excessive amounts of vodka at a Delta Tau Delta fraternity rush event. Colin Daniel Martinez was found unresponsive on January 31 and could not be resuscitated, according to an autopsy report released Monday.
Key Takeaways
An 18-year-old Northern Arizona University student died from alcohol poisoning after consuming excessive amounts of vodka at a Delta Tau Delta fraternity rush event. His blood-alcohol level was measured at 0.425%, more than five times the legal driving limit.
- Autopsy reveals fatal blood-alcohol level over 0.425%
- Three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing
- University and national fraternity organization condemn hazing practices
- Fraternity chapter suspended and later shuttered
The autopsy revealed that Martinez's blood-alcohol level was 0.425%, more than five times the legal driving limit in Arizona and an amount generally considered fatal. Three leaders from the Delta Tau Delta fraternity face charges in connection with his death: Carter Eslick, Ryan Creech, and Riley Cass, who were arrested on suspicion of hazing.
The Coconino County Attorney's Office is reviewing the case to determine whether formal charges are appropriate against the three leaders. According to court documents, Martinez and three others involved in a fraternity rush event were tasked with drinking two bottles of vodka to ensure they vomited as part of a rite to join the fraternity.
Witnesses reported that students readjusted Martinez's sleeping position, checked his pulse and breathing, and looked up symptoms of alcohol poisoning throughout the night. Despite these efforts, Martinez died at the scene. The university suspended the fraternity following Martinez's death, and the national organization later voted to shutter the NAU chapter.
Northern Arizona University released a statement mourning the tragic death of a student and pledging support for the police investigation. The university emphasized its commitment to hazing prevention training and high standards for conduct among associated organizations and individual students. Delta Tau Delta International also responded, stating that hazing is antithetical to brotherhood and violates the fraternity's values.
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