The Alpha Delta chapter of the Chi Phi fraternity was suspended by Penn State officials on Oct. 22 after the death of a 17-year-old male at an off-campus house, believed to be occupied by members of the fraternity.
Emergency responders were called to the scene around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday for the 17-teen-year old male who was unconscious and was experiencing shallow breathing, according to State College police. He was in full cardiac arrest and was declared dead at the scene.
The teen, later identified as John “Jack” Schoenig, was visiting the area and was not a Penn State student.
The Cathedral Preparatory School, a private school located in Erie, Pa., said Schoenig was a senior and hockey player there, according to ABC News.
It is still unknown what Schoenig’s relationship was with the Chi Phi members, as well as his cause of death.
State College police reported that there were no signs of trauma on the victim and several witnesses were present when Schoenig become unconscious. It is still unclear if there was alcohol or hazing involved in the accident, though an autopsy is to be scheduled by the Centre County Coroner’s office.
According to Michael Azarian, Chi Phi’s national executive director, the off-campus house was not part of the fraternity activities and the national organization will continue to monitor the investigation.
In a statement, Penn State offered their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this young man.
The interim suspension placed on the fraternity will make them lose all privileges as a recognized student organization, pending the outcome of the investigations.
“The organization may not participate, attend or organize any functions, activities or events, or participate in University-wide events as an organization,” Penn State said.
