College Student Downed 60-Ounce Vodka Bottle During Frat Hazing Before Death: Court Papers

A college sophomore from New York City who died of excessive alcohol consumption drank a 60-ounce bottle of vodka during what college officials said was the hazing of pledges at an unsanctioned fraternity, according to court papers filed in connection to the case.

The documents were filed by two students who were expelled from the University at Albany after Trevor Duffy, 19, of the Bronx died in November, The Times Union of Albany reported. His death came after a night of heavy drinking during a party held by Zeta Beta Tau members at an off-campus home.

The two students want to return to the college. They were among the 24 sanctioned by the university after its investigation determined members of the underground frat were guilty of drug, alcohol and student group violations, as well as threatening and abusive behavior, endangerment, hazing and disruptive conduct, the newspaper reported.

The university's investigation concluded Duffy's death was the result of hazing. No one has been arrested. Albany police said their investigation is continuing.

Duffy died at an Albany hospital Nov. 17, two days after drinking large amounts of alcohol with other frat pledges. Police said they went to the Albany home early on Nov. 16 after someone called 911 to report an intoxicated man in need of medical assistance.

Officers said Duffy and four other young men were taken to the hospital for treatment for excessive alcohol consumption. The other four men were treated and released.

The court papers included details of other frat hazing rituals that included pledges being told to fight one another and eat the insides of cigars. 

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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