An Ohio State University fraternity has been temporarily suspended while authorities investigate a video that appears to show two panicked men engulfed in flames.
A video shared on social media shows an individual with his sweatpants on fire who then lunges at a second individual and pins him to the ground. The second man’s clothes also catch fire, and they both roll on the ground undressing as several bystanders intervene.
University spokesman Benjamin Johnson said Ohio State placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension while it investigated and referred the matter to the university and Columbus police.
“The university is aware of this extremely concerning incident and the individuals in question are receiving medical treatment,” Johnson said in a statement. “Ohio State is committed to a safe and healthy environment and expects students and student organizations to uphold this commitment and the values of the university.
Columbus Police Sergeant Joe Albert said it appears the incident took place Saturday. Police did not receive any calls to the scene, but someone called police Sunday evening to report the video was circulating online, he said.
Steve Mitchell, CEO of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, said behavior that violates its high standards has no place in his organization and that he will take appropriate action to hold those responsible accountable based on the investigation.
“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 said in a statement.
More than 62,000 students are enrolled at the university’s Columbus campus.
Holly Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire.
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