Alleged Hazing Death Leads to Fraternity Shutdown at Northern Arizona University

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

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:33pm

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A college freshman named Colin Daniel Martinez, 18, died on January 31 after attending a Delta Tau Delta fraternity "rush" event near Northern Arizona University. An autopsy report determined his cause of death was alcohol poisoning, with a blood-alcohol concentration of 0.425% - more than five times the legal driving limit. Police allege Martinez and three other prospective members were instructed to consume large amounts of vodka as part of a hazing ritual to join the fraternity, with the expectation they would drink until they vomited. Three fraternity leaders have been arrested on suspicion of hazing, and the national Delta Tau Delta organization has permanently closed the NAU chapter.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing problem of hazing and dangerous initiation rituals at college fraternities. Hazing was criminalized in Arizona in 2022 under "Jack's Law", which allows offenders to face prison sentences. The death of Martinez has prompted a criminal review, arrests, and the permanent shutdown of the Delta Tau Delta chapter at NAU, raising awareness of the need for fraternities to strictly enforce anti-hazing policies to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to the autopsy report, Martinez's blood-alcohol concentration was 0.425%, a potentially fatal level. Police say Martinez and three other prospective members were instructed to consume large amounts of vodka as part of a fraternity initiation event the night before he was found unresponsive. Students at the house reportedly heard him snoring loudly around 3 a.m., hours before 911 was called. Bystanders were performing CPR when first responders arrived, but Martinez was pronounced dead at the scene.

  • On January 31, 2026, Colin Daniel Martinez, 18, 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 after attending a Delta Tau Delta fraternity "rush" event.

Carter Eslick

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in relation to Martinez's death.

Ryan Creech

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in relation to Martinez's death.

Riley Cass

One of three fraternity leaders arrested on suspicion of hazing in relation to Martinez's death.

Delta Tau Delta

The national fraternity that has permanently closed its chapter at Northern Arizona University following Martinez's death.

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What they’re saying

“Our zero-tolerance policy on hazing is an unwavering commitment, and when that commitment is violated, we will act with resolve.”

— Jack Kreman, CEO

“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

“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

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 on suspicion of hazing. No court date has been set yet.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for fraternities to strictly enforce anti-hazing policies and create a culture of safety, rather than dangerous initiation rituals. The permanent closure of the Delta Tau Delta chapter at NAU sends a strong message, but more work is needed to prevent similar hazing-related deaths on college campuses.