Ohio State suspends Sigma Alpha Epsilon after viral video shows men set on fire

Key points

• Ohio State University placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension on November 8 following the circulation of a video showing two individuals with their clothing on fire.
• The video, shared on social media, appears to show one man with sweatpants on fire tackling a second man, causing his clothing to ignite, while bystanders in Buckeye football gear intervene.
• Columbus Police stated they received no calls for service on Saturday, November 7, but were alerted on Sunday, November 8, when someone reported the video was circulating online.
• The university referred the matter to Columbus police and the Columbus Division of Fire’s Arson Unit to determine if criminal acts occurred.
• The national Sigma Alpha Epsilon organization stated it is actively investigating the incident and working with university officials and law enforcement to hold those responsible accountable.

Background

This incident occurs amid a national surge in scrutiny regarding Greek life safety. In October 2026, Cornell University suspended all fraternity parties for the 2026-2027 academic year following a civil lawsuit alleging a 2024 gang sexual assault. Similarly, the University of Arizona suspended all 21 Interfraternity Council chapters in October 2026 following a surge in misconduct investigations, including assault, drug use, and hazing. Ohio State has also recently disciplined other fraternities; in July 2026, the university revoked the charter of Pi Kappa Phi following a March incident that hospitalized a student, and in April 2026, the Kappa Delta Rho fraternity was suspended for alcohol and hazing violations.

How outlets are covering it

AP News, USA Today, NBC News, and The Columbus Dispatch all report that Ohio State University placed Sigma Alpha Epsilon on interim suspension after a video circulated online. The Dispatch notes that the video appears to have been filmed at 1980 Indianola Ave, about six minutes from the fraternity’s main house, and that the property owner did not return calls. NBC News highlights that the incident occurred on the same day as Ohio State’s football game against Oregon, with many bystanders wearing Buckeye gear. The Dispatch questions whether the incident constitutes hazing, noting that sources say it is too soon to determine, while NBC News provides background on Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s history of incidents, including a 2013 Bloomberg report labeling it the 'deadliest frat' due to nine deaths related to drinking, drugs, and hazing between 2006 and 2013. All outlets agree that the national fraternity organization is investigating the incident and working with authorities.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about student safety and the conduct of Greek life organizations on college campuses. The viral nature of the video has drawn national attention to the issue, and the university’s decision to suspend the fraternity and refer the matter to law enforcement signals a commitment to addressing such incidents. The incident also highlights the ongoing scrutiny of fraternities and sororities in the United States, with several universities taking action to address misconduct and safety concerns in recent months.

What to watch

The investigation by Columbus police and the Columbus Division of Fire’s Arson Unit will determine if criminal acts occurred. The national Sigma Alpha Epsilon organization will take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation. Ohio State University will continue its investigation and may take further disciplinary action against the fraternity or individuals involved. The incident may also lead to increased scrutiny of Greek life organizations on college campuses nationwide.