Ohio State suspends Sigma Alpha Epsilon after video shows students with sweatpants on fire

Ohio State University has placed the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity on an immediate, temporary suspension following the circulation of a video showing two men with their sweatpants on fire, CBS News reported.

The video, shared on social media, depicts a group of people outside, many wearing Ohio State colors, while one man sits on the ground with his sweatpants ablaze. He then lunges at a second person, whose clothing also catches fire. Both men roll on the ground to extinguish the flames as bystanders intervene, with one holding a small fire extinguisher, according to CBS News.

University spokesperson Benjamin Johnson stated that the individuals involved are receiving medical care and that the university is committed to maintaining a safe environment. The incident has been referred to both university and Columbus police for investigation, with police noting that the event appears to have occurred on Saturday and that the video was reported to them on Sunday evening.

Steve Mitchell, CEO of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, said the fraternity is actively investigating the incident and working with university officials and law enforcement. He emphasized that behavior violating the fraternity's standards has no place in the organization and that appropriate action will be taken based on the investigation.

Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert confirmed no calls for service were received at the location during the incident but acknowledged the video prompted police attention after it circulated online.