Des Moines police are investigating a possible hazing case involving a Drake University student. Authorities say 19-year-old Nathan Erickson of Durant was hospitalized on Sunday for apparent alcohol poisoning. Erickson, a member of Phi Delta Theta, was reportedly drinking Everclear at a residence behind the fraternity house.
Drake University spokesperson Lisa Lacher says university officials are also investigating if Erickson was forced to drink the alcohol.
“We contacted the national headquarters of Phi Delta Theta and they are sending a representative to campus to help deal with the situation,” Lacher said. “We’ve also notified the alumni advisors and the chapter president.”
The police report states Erickson’s blood alcohol content was nearly .50 when he arrived at the hospital. His mother told officers she received a text message from her son stating he had been forced to drink several shots of Everclear. Lacher says Erickson was released from the hospital today.