Ohio State University placed Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension on November 9, 2026, after a widely circulated video showed two individuals engulfed in flames during an incident that occurred Saturday.
University spokesperson Benjamin Johnson announced the suspension in a statement, saying the university was aware of the "extremely concerning incident" and that the individuals involved were receiving medical care. "Ohio State has placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on interim suspension pending a full investigation, and the university has made referrals to law enforcement," Johnson said.
The video, which circulated on social media, depicts one person with sweatpants on fire who lunges at and tackles a second individual. The second person's clothing immediately catches fire as well. Both individuals roll on the ground while removing their burning clothes as onlookers, some wearing university jerseys, attempt to intervene. A bystander is seen trying unsuccessfully to deploy a fire extinguisher to extinguish the flames.
Columbus police were alerted to the incident and are conducting an investigation alongside university authorities. The individuals involved are receiving necessary medical treatment, though the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed.
Sigma Alpha Epsilon is a national fraternity with a stated mission of "advancing the highest standards of friendship, scholarship, leadership, and service." The interim suspension remains in effect while the full investigation proceeds.
The incident has raised questions about safety protocols and conduct standards within the fraternity chapter. University officials have not yet released additional details about the circumstances that led to the fire or the identities of those involved.