Only two weeks after the death of Charlie Terreni, a USC student and Pi Kappa Alpha member, the investigation into Clemson's Tucker Hipps' death has resurfaced, putting fraternity deaths back in the headlines.
The family of late Clemson student Hipps filed lawsuits seeking over $50 million in damages from Clemson University, Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and three fraternity members.
According the lawsuits — filed in Pickens County, where Clemson is located — Hipps was the victim of hazing during a Sep. 22, 2014 early morning pledge run.
A fraternity brother was upset with Hipps because he had not bought 30 McDonald’s breakfasts and 2 gallons of chocolate milk before the run, according to the lawsuits. Hipps allegedly told the fraternity brothers that he didn't have the $100 in his bank account to pay for the food via text the night before the run.
This turn of events led to a "confrontation" on the bridge that Hipps fell from, per the suits.
The lawsuit against Clemson stated the university failed to provide education and training about hazing to their fraternities, and should have suspended the fraternity immediately following the conduct violation.
The lawsuits also charge that the brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon attempted to cover up their role in Hipps’ death by deleting calls and text messages as well as changing phone numbers.
According to the family, the lawsuits were filed with hopes that change will happen and that Hipp' lost life will not be in vain.
SLED conducted their investigation of the case before handing over their results to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation of Hipps’ death is continuing. However, there will be no new information released until a conclusion has been reached.
The manner of death has not been ruled, according to Oconee County Coroner Karl Addis, and as long as there is an open and active investigation the manner of death will remain open.
Clemson has not been served with the lawsuits but is aware of them, according to Cathy Sams, a university spokeswoman.