Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed Against UT Austin Fraternity Over Alleged Hazing

Lawsuit Alleges Severe Hazing and Fatal Consequences

• 📌 A new lawsuit details alleged horrific hazing incidents at the UT Austin chapter of Sigma Kai fraternity, including cigarette burns, sleep deprivation, and beatings.
• 💡 Photos included in the lawsuit reportedly show a fish hook injury on Sawyer Updike's leg and bruises on his back, alongside cigarette burns on his chest.
• 🎯 The lawsuit claims these hazing activities and drug use led the 18-year-old freshman to a psychological crisis, ultimately contributing to his death in January 2024.

Legal Action and Fraternity Response

• ⚖️ Ted Lion, the attorney for Updike's family, stated that the fraternity's actions were the approximate cause of death, with plans to present expert testimony.
• 🔨 The lawsuit alleges that a fraternity member used a staple gun on the pledge's hip, described by the attorney as an extreme form of hazing.
• 🚫 UT Austin did not respond to requests for comment, while Sigma Kai announced the closure of the chapter and expulsion of several members, citing their core principles.

History of Violations and Family Impact

• ⚠️ University records indicate the fraternity chapter had prior violations for hazing and faced new allegations again last fall, after Updike's death.
• 🗣️ The attorney expressed a strong belief that the individuals involved should be criminally prosecuted.
• 💔 Updike's mother shared her grief, stating she did not send her son to college to never see him again and hopes other families are spared similar suffering.
• ⚖️ The civil lawsuit, with a lower burden of proof than criminal charges, names the fraternity and five members, including two from North Texas.