Madison Police Arrest Two After Finding 30 Injured Pledges in Fraternity Basement

Key points

• On September 23, 2026, Madison police responded to an anonymous tip regarding an event at the Alpha Epi fraternity house on Langdon Street.
• Officers discovered around 30 males, mostly 18 years old, in the basement who were partially clothed and covered in food, condiments, and other liquids.
• The basement thermostat was set to 81 degrees, creating hot and humid conditions, and several victims had visible injuries consistent with physical assault.
• Brayden J. Klein and Samuel N. Vane, both 20, were arrested for hazing and disorderly conduct and taken to Dane County Jail.
• The University of Wisconsin-Madison confirmed the chapter is unrecognized and unaccredited, having been terminated by the university in 2015, but noted it can operate as an unaffiliated chapter because it is recognized by the national organization.
• The national Alpha Epi headquarters stated it takes the allegations seriously and will cooperate with the investigation, promising to expel members found responsible for criminal conduct.

Background

This incident follows a history of issues with the Alpha Epi chapter in Madison. According to the Associated Press, the chapter was suspended in 2013 after an incident involving alcohol and detox, and was terminated by the university in 2015. Since 2016, there have been seven additional allegations related to drinking, hazing, and disrespectful behavior. The university has a nonacademic misconduct process for investigating such incidents, and the national organization has a policy against hazing.

How outlets are covering it

CBS News and the Madison Police Department emphasize the physical injuries and the harsh conditions (81-degree thermostat) experienced by the victims. WCVB highlights the legal status of the fraternity, noting that while unrecognized by the university, it is legally allowed to operate because of its national affiliation. UW-Madison focuses on its commitment to preventing hazing and the ongoing investigation through its nonacademic misconduct process, while the national Alpha Epi organization stresses its zero-tolerance policy and cooperation with authorities. All sources agree on the basic facts of the arrest and the condition of the victims, but differ in emphasis on the legal and institutional responses.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about the safety of students during Greek life recruitment and the effectiveness of university and national fraternity oversight. It highlights the potential for hazing to occur even in unrecognized or unaccredited organizations and the challenges in regulating such groups. The case also underscores the importance of anonymous reporting mechanisms and the role of law enforcement in addressing hazing incidents.

What to watch

The Madison Police Department investigation is ongoing, and they are asking for information from the public. The University of Wisconsin-Madison is investigating the incident through its nonacademic misconduct process, and the national Alpha Epi organization is cooperating with the investigation. Further charges may be announced as the investigation progresses, and the university may impose sanctions on any students found in violation of policy.