UB Student Dies After Hazing Incident

A UB student has passed away after a hazing incident that occurred at a fraternity house on Custer Street. Apparently, he was found on the front lawn after a hazing scenario that involved excessive exercise that caused cardiac arrest, something that many would think wouldn't result in death.

After early toxicology reports happened, police said that no drugs or alcohol were involved, but that is seemingly still being investigated. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and the UB community. The President of UB released a message to all of the students last year:

Dear university community,

 

I am deeply saddened to share with you that UB freshman Sebastian Serafin-Bazan passed away today. 

Our hearts go out to Sebastian’s family for the devastating heartbreak they are experiencing. We extend our sincerest condolences to the Serafin-Bazan family and to all of Sebastian’s friends here at UB and in his hometown of Port Chester, N.Y. We join them in mourning the tragic loss of a member of our UB family.

 

If you are struggling, please know that our university counselors are here to provide you support in the aftermath of this terrible loss. As we grieve Sebastian’s passing today and well beyond, it is my hope that each of us pauses to remind ourselves that we can only uphold our humanity by treating each other with dignity, compassion, and kindness."

2 On Your Side talked with Erie County District Attorney John Flynn on Tuesday about if hazing could lead to criminal charges.

 

"Hazing alone, hazing in it of itself wouldn't be a crime," he said. "It would be the conduct that results from the hazing. So, if there is an assault. Whether it's, if this poor young man passes away, then I've got to be able to prove the cause of death."