FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Three Northern Arizona University students and members of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity have been arrested in connection with a sudden death investigation involving an 18-year-old NAU student, Flagstaff police said Saturday.
Officers with the Flagstaff Police Department responded about 8:44 a.m. to a report of an unresponsive male at a residence in the 10 block of South Pine Grove Road. Bystanders began CPR before officers arrived. Police continued life-saving efforts until paramedics reached the scene, but the student was pronounced dead at the residence.
Detectives executed search warrants and interviewed witnesses at the home. Preliminary information indicates the student attended a gathering at the residence the previous night that was identified as a “rush” event for the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. Alcohol consumption was reported among numerous attendees, including pledge candidates, police said.
As a result of the investigation, three NAU students — all executive board members of Delta Tau Delta — were arrested and booked into the Coconino County Detention Facility on suspicion of hazing under Arizona law. Those arrested were identified as Carter Eslick, 20, the fraternity’s new member educator; Ryan Creech, 20, vice president; and Riley Cass, 20, treasurer.
The deceased student was enrolled at Northern Arizona University. Detectives are continuing to pursue additional leads, review evidence and coordinate with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause and manner of death.
Next of kin have been notified. Out of respect for the family and pending investigative findings, no additional details were released. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Flagstaff police at 928-774-1414 or Silent Witness at 928-774-6111.
