Liquor blamed for fraternity pledge death

Utah State University has suspended a fraternity and sorority after the death of a fraternity pledge of apparent alcohol poisoning.

Michael Starks, 18, a pledge at the Sigma Nu fraternity, died early Friday, The Salt Lake Tribune reports.

His older brother, George,a coffee shop owner and publisher in Salt Lake City, told the newspaper that Michael was kidnapped by a sorority, Chi Omega, and given large quantities of alcohol. George Starks said that was supposed to be a reward for his being an outstanding pledge.

The parent organizations of both groups have suspended the Chi Omega and Sigma Nu chapters at the university, while the university has suspended them as student organizations.

Capt. Jeff Curtis of the Logan Police Department said that some students could face criminal charges. He said that more than 20 have been questions, and investigators are waiting for reports on the exact cause of Michael Starks' death.

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