California Fraternity Members Charged After Allegedly Setting Pledge on Fire at SDSU Party
A fraternity skit turned deadly serious—four members face charges after a pledge was set on fire during a reckless SDSU party. 🌐 #News #SanDiegoCA #California #Crime
SAN DIEGO, CA – Four members of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity at San Diego State University in California are facing criminal charges following a disturbing incident in which a pledge was allegedly set on fire during a party. The event, which took place on February 17, 2024, has led to serious consequences for both the victim and the fraternity members involved.
The Incident: A Dangerous “Skit” at a Fraternity Party
According to the San Diego County District Attorney’s office, the party took place despite the fraternity being on probation by the university.
During the event, Phi Kappa Psi members and pledges allegedly staged a dangerous “skit” in which Christopher Serrano set Lars Larsen on fire. Larsen, 19 years old, sustained third-degree burns on 16% of his body, primarily on his legs, and required weeks of hospitalization to recover.
The District Attorney’s office also revealed that underage students at the party, including the defendants, consumed alcohol before the skit. This further escalated the recklessness surrounding the event.
Efforts to Obstruct the Investigation
Following the shocking incident, several fraternity members allegedly attempted to interfere with the investigation.
Caden Cooper (the fraternity president), Lucas Cowling (a pledge board member), Christopher Serrano, and Lars Larsen (the victim) are accused of lying to law enforcement and deleting evidence on social media.
Furthermore, the group allegedly instructed other fraternity members to remove any incriminating material and refrain from talking about the incident.
Criminal Charges and Consequences
The four individuals involved now face criminal charges, with the most serious being related to the assault on Larsen. All four were released with conditions that include not participating in any future fraternity events, such as parties or recruitment activities, and a requirement to obey the law.
In an announcement, the District Attorney’s office confirmed that the charges aim to hold the individuals accountable for the extreme actions that led to the injury of the victim and the subsequent attempt to conceal the truth.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details may emerge as authorities continue to pursue justice for the victim.
RELATED TOPICS: California | Crime
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