Now that authorities have finished their investigation into the November 2011 suspected hazing-related death of Robert Champion, a Florida A&M University band drum major, the wait continues on who will be charged.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement March 27 saying the investigation, which included interviewing more than 40 people and more than 1,000 hours of work, was finished. Prosecutors have received a copy of the investigation.
The Florida State Attorney’s Office has also received a copy of the completed investigation. However, no one is saying when a decision will be made on charging anyone.
Some band members said Champion, 26, died while participating in a hazing initiation ritual dubbed “Crossing Bus C” to join a band social group. According to reports, in the ritual pledges must run the length of the bus while senior members assault them.
Champion soon collapsed on the bus. The medical examiner’s office ruled Champion’s death a homicide. The medical examiner concluded the Florida A&M University student died an hour after the hazing incident in which he suffered multiple hits to the head.
Champion’s autopsy revealed extensive contusions to his back, shoulders, arms and chest. It also revealed crushing of the fatty tissue under the skin.