Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, January 30, 2026
A jury in Luzerne County has awarded $7.8 million to the family of Justin King, a Bloomsburg University student who died in 2019 during a fraternity rush event. The verdict highlights the responsibility of the Kappa Sigma fraternity and Alpha Sigma Tau sorority in providing alcohol that contributed to his fatal fall. Bloomsburg University has since revoked the fraternity’s recognition and suspended the sorority, aiming to enhance student safety and combat hazing practices.
Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania – In a landmark decision, a Luzerne County jury has granted a $7.8 million verdict to the family of Justin King, a Bloomsburg University student whose life was tragically cut short in 2019 after an alcohol-fueled fraternity rush event. The verdict, resulting from a lawsuit filed by King’s mother, Carol King, attributed responsibility to both the Kappa Sigma fraternity and the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority for their role in providing alcohol that contributed to Justin’s fatal fall from a steep embankment.
The jury’s findings have assigned 35% of the liability to both the fraternity and sorority, while Justin himself was deemed 24% at fault, alongside six individual fraternity members each holding 1%. This division of accountability results in the sorority being liable for over $3.5 million including delay damages. The fraternity and individual defendants had previously settled the claim with King’s family, which leaves the sorority contemplating its legal options following the verdict.
In light of this incident, Bloomsburg University has taken decisive action by permanently revoking the fraternity’s recognition and expelling it from campus, while issuing a four-year suspension to the sorority. These measures, along with the implementation of stricter regulations on Greek life, aim to prevent such tragedies in the future and reflect the institution’s commitment to student safety.
Concerns Around Fraternity and Sorority Hazing
The verdict underscores a critical issue surrounding hazing practices within collegiate Greek organizations. Despite existing anti-hazing laws, incidents like Justin King’s death highlight the necessity for ongoing vigilance and stringent enforcement to safeguard student well-being.
Both the university and broader community have an important role to play in fostering a safe environment for students, encouraging private initiatives and local leadership to step up against harmful traditions that persist in some Greek life chapters.
Legal and Community Ramifications
This case serves as a pivotal example of how local legal frameworks can respond to incidents of this nature, reflecting public sentiment on accountability and responsibility. The substantial monetary verdict is also a call to action for educational institutions across the country to rigorously evaluate their Greek life policies and associated risks.
Efforts to engage and educate students about the dangers of reckless behavior while participating in Greek life activities are essential. By focusing on community engagement and personal accountability, the hope is to prevent tragic outcomes like King’s from occurring in the future.
University Initiatives and Stricter Regulations
Bloomsburg University’s response not only reflects accountability but also encourages a culture of responsibility among its students. The permanent revocation of the fraternity’s recognition and the suspension of the sorority sends a strong message about the serious consequences of failing to respect the safety and well-being of individuals.
By instituting stricter rules governing Greek life, the university reinforces its commitment to student safety, which is paramount in growing a responsible and engaged student community. This positive response can serve as a model for other institutions grappling with similar issues.
Conclusion
The verdict in the case of Justin King’s death emphasizes both the perils associated with fraternity and sorority activities and the importance of enforcing accountability. As the community reflects on this tragedy, it’s an opportunity for universities to enhance their policies on student safety, engage in educational initiatives, and promote a culture of responsible engagement.
Active support from various stakeholders—students, alumni, and the local community—will be instrumental in shaping a safer environment. Everyone has a role in advocating for meaningful change that prioritizes student welfare over tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the cause of Justin King’s death?
Justin King died in 2019 after consuming alcohol at a fraternity rush event, leading to a fatal fall from a 75-foot embankment.
Who was held responsible for Justin King’s death?
A jury found the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority and the Kappa Sigma fraternity each 35% responsible, with individual fraternity members and Justin King also assigned portions of the fault.
What actions did Bloomsburg University take following the incident?
The university permanently revoked the fraternity’s recognition, expelled the chapter from campus, and suspended the sorority for four years. It also implemented stricter regulations on Greek life to prevent similar incidents.
What is the significance of this case?
The case underscores the ongoing concerns about hazing practices in collegiate Greek organizations and the importance of enforcing anti-hazing laws to protect students.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Justin King died in 2019 after consuming alcohol at a fraternity rush event, leading to a fatal fall from a 75-foot embankment. |
| Legal Outcome | A jury awarded a $7.8 million verdict to Justin King’s family, assigning fault to the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, Kappa Sigma fraternity, individual fraternity members, and Justin King. |
| University Actions | Bloomsburg University permanently revoked the fraternity’s recognition, expelled the chapter from campus, suspended the sorority for four years, and implemented stricter regulations on Greek life. |
| Significance | The case highlights ongoing concerns about hazing practices in collegiate Greek organizations and the importance of enforcing anti-hazing laws to protect students. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
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