Northern Arizona State College Student Dies in Hazing Incident

Autopsy reveals victim's blood alcohol level was over 5 times the legal driving limit

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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An 18-year-old Northern Arizona State University student died of alcohol poisoning during a fraternity hazing incident in January. An autopsy revealed the student, Colin Daniel Martinez, had a blood alcohol level of 0.425% - more than five times the legal driving limit. Three fraternity leaders have been arrested on suspicion of hazing.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing problem of dangerous hazing practices at college campuses, which can have fatal consequences. It also raises questions about fraternity oversight and the need for stronger anti-hazing policies and enforcement.

The details

According to the autopsy report, Martinez and three others were tasked with drinking two bottles of vodka as part of a 'rush' event to join the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Some witnesses said the alcohol was diluted with water, but Martinez's blood alcohol level was still an incredibly high 0.425%. Students at the house called police after Martinez passed out and was heard snoring loudly around 3 a.m., but he died at the scene despite CPR efforts. Three fraternity leaders - the new member educator, vice president, and treasurer - were arrested on suspicion of hazing.

  • The incident occurred on January 31, 2026.
  • Martinez's autopsy report was released on March 10, 2026.

The players

Colin Daniel Martinez

An 18-year-old Northern Arizona State University student who died of alcohol poisoning during a fraternity hazing incident.

Carter Eslick

The new member educator of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at Northern Arizona State University, who was arrested on suspicion of hazing.

Ryan Creech

The vice president of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at Northern Arizona State University, who was arrested on suspicion of hazing.

Riley Cass

The treasurer of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at Northern Arizona State University, who was arrested on suspicion of hazing.

Delta Tau Delta

The national fraternity organization that had a chapter at Northern Arizona State University, which was later shut down after the incident.

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What’s next

The Coconino County Attorney's Office is reviewing the case to determine whether formal charges will be filed against the three arrested fraternity leaders.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for colleges and universities to strengthen their anti-hazing policies, increase oversight of Greek life organizations, and ensure swift accountability for any dangerous hazing practices that put students' lives at risk.