Two fraternity leaders in Madison, Wisconsin, have been arrested after police responding to an anonymous tip found roughly 30 partially clothed young men inside a hot basement during an alleged hazing incident.
Madison police were called to the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity house on Langdon Street around 8:20 p.m. Wednesday, September 23, during the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s rush week. Officers said most of the young men found inside were 18 years old and were covered in food, condiments and other liquids.
Police reported that the basement thermostat was set at 81 degrees, creating hot and humid conditions. Several of the men also had visible injuries that investigators said appeared consistent with physical assault. Officers declared the gathering unlawful, escorted everyone outside and checked the young men for injuries and signs of incapacitation. No one was taken for medical treatment, according to police.
Fraternity president Brayden J. Klein and vice president Samuel N. Vane, both 20, were arrested on suspicion of hazing and disorderly conduct. The allegations are misdemeanors, and the Dane County District Attorney’s Office will review the case before determining whether formal charges will be filed.
Police said cooperation at the scene was limited and that some witness accounts did not match one another. Investigators are continuing to gather information and have encouraged anyone with firsthand knowledge of the incident to come forward.
The incident has also prompted attention because the Madison chapter of Alpha Epsilon Pi is not currently recognized or accredited by UW–Madison. The university terminated its affiliation with the chapter in 2015, but the national Alpha Epsilon Pi organization continues to recognize it, allowing the local chapter to operate independently of the university.
UW–Madison said its Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards is investigating any students connected to the incident. Depending on the findings, students who are determined to have violated university policies could face disciplinary measures, including probation, suspension or expulsion. University officials are also providing support to students affected by the incident.
Alpha Epsilon Pi International said it is cooperating with authorities and stated that members found responsible for criminal conduct would face expulsion from the fraternity. The organization has described hazing as inconsistent with its stated standards and said there is no place for it within the fraternity.
Madison police emphasized that their investigation remains active, particularly as recruitment activities continue across the city’s Greek-life community. Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Madison Area Crime Stoppers.
The investigation will determine what occurred inside the fraternity house and whether additional individuals face consequences. For now, the two fraternity leaders remain at the center of the criminal investigation, while university and fraternity officials conduct separate reviews.
