Fraternity Leader at NAU Charged with Hazing in Student's Alcohol Death

Carter Eslick, the pledge master, faces a felony hazing charge after an 18-year-old pledge died of alcohol poisoning at a rush event.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 2:26am

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The pledge master of a fraternity at Northern Arizona University has been indicted on a felony hazing charge related to the death of an 18-year-old student, Colin Daniel Martinez, who died of alcohol poisoning after a night of drinking at an off-campus rush event in late January.

Why it matters

Hazing incidents at fraternities and sororities have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with several high-profile cases of student deaths leading to calls for stricter regulations and enforcement. This case highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in curbing dangerous hazing practices.

The details

According to court documents, Martinez was among four fraternity candidates who shared two bottles of vodka at the rush event to ensure they vomited. Witnesses reported checking on Martinez throughout the night but did not seek medical help. An autopsy found Martinez had a blood alcohol level of 0.425%, more than five times the legal limit for driving and generally considered to be fatal.

  • On January 31, 2026, Martinez was found unresponsive at an off-campus house and died at the scene.
  • On March 28, 2026, Carter Eslick, the fraternity's pledge master, was indicted on a felony hazing charge.

The players

Carter Eslick

The pledge master of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity at Northern Arizona University who was indicted on a felony hazing charge.

Colin Daniel Martinez

An 18-year-old Northern Arizona University student who died of alcohol poisoning after a fraternity rush event.

Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker

The county attorney who announced the hazing charge against Eslick.

Josh Blumenrich

The attorney representing Carter Eslick.

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What they’re saying

“The loss of a young person is always a tragedy.”

— Ammon Barker, Coconino County Attorney

What’s next

Prosecutors have not yet indicated whether they will seek charges against the two other fraternity members arrested in connection with Martinez's death.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the urgent need for universities to strengthen their oversight and enforcement of hazing policies to prevent future student deaths. It also raises broader questions about the culture of Greek life and the role institutions must play in protecting the wellbeing of their students.