Alleged Hazing Death Leads to Fraternity Arrests, Shutdown at Northern Arizona University

College freshman dies from alcohol poisoning during fraternity rush event, prompting criminal investigation and permanent closure of Delta Tau Delta chapter.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 10:33pm

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A college freshman, Colin Daniel Martinez, died on January 31 after attending a Delta Tau Delta fraternity 'rush' event near Northern Arizona University. An autopsy report found that Martinez's cause of death was alcohol poisoning, with a blood-alcohol concentration over five times the legal driving limit. Police have arrested three fraternity leaders on suspicion of hazing, and the Coconino County Attorney's Office is reviewing the case for potential charges. The university has suspended the Delta Tau Delta chapter while conducting its own review, and the fraternity's national leadership has permanently closed the NAU chapter, citing a violation of its zero-tolerance policy on hazing.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing problem of hazing and dangerous initiation rituals at college fraternities. The death of Martinez has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stronger measures to prevent hazing and protect student safety on campuses. The case also comes after Arizona passed 'Jack's Law' in 2022, which criminalized hazing and allows offenders to face prison sentences.

The details

According to court documents, Martinez and three other prospective members were instructed to consume large amounts of vodka as part of a rite to join the fraternity, with the expectation they would drink until they vomited. Students at the house reportedly heard Martinez snoring loudly around 3 a.m., hours before 911 was called. Others adjusted his position, checked his pulse and searched online for symptoms of alcohol poisoning before emergency crews were contacted. Bystanders were performing CPR when first responders arrived, but Martinez was pronounced dead at the scene.

  • On January 31, 2026, Colin Daniel Martinez died after attending a Delta Tau Delta fraternity 'rush' event near Northern Arizona University.
  • In January 2026, police arrested three fraternity leaders, Carter Eslick, Ryan Creech and Riley Cass, on suspicion of hazing.

The players

Colin Daniel Martinez

An 18-year-old college freshman at Northern Arizona University who died from alcohol poisoning during a fraternity hazing incident.

Carter Eslick

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in connection with Martinez's death.

Ryan Creech

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in connection with Martinez's death.

Riley Cass

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in connection with Martinez's death.

Delta Tau Delta

The fraternity whose Northern Arizona University chapter was permanently closed by its national leadership following Martinez's death.

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What they’re saying

“This is a very serious case, and we are reviewing it with great care.”

— Michael Tunink, Chief Deputy County Attorney

“Hazing and reckless behavior are antithetical to everything our fraternity stands for and an egregious violation of the trust necessary for real brotherhood.”

— Jack Kreman, CEO, Delta Tau Delta

“The loss of a young man's life is a tragedy without measure. On behalf of Delta Tau Delta, I extend our deepest condolences to the victim's family and to all who loved him.”

— Jack Kreman, CEO, Delta Tau Delta

What’s next

The Coconino County Attorney's Office is continuing to review the case to determine if charges will be filed against the three fraternity leaders arrested. No court date has been set yet.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for colleges and fraternities to take stronger action to prevent hazing and protect student safety. The permanent closure of the Delta Tau Delta chapter at NAU sends a clear message, but more comprehensive reforms may be necessary to address the persistent problem of hazing on campuses nationwide.