DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, HANOVER, N.H. (AP) — The Alpha Phi sorority at Dartmouth College, along with two members of the Beta Alpha Omega fraternity, has been charged in connection with the tragic drowning of a student who went missing after attending an off-campus party this past summer.
Won Jang, a 20-year-old from Middletown, Delaware, was reported missing in July following the gathering. Search efforts by state and local emergency responders ultimately led to the discovery of his body in the Connecticut River.
On Friday, authorities in Hanover, New Hampshire, made the announcements regarding the charges. Alpha Phi has been charged with one count of facilitating an underage drinking party, while two fraternity members face charges for providing alcohol to individuals under the legal drinking age of 21.
The event was primarily attended by students who were underage, and attendees reportedly decided to swim in the river after the party concluded. A sudden heavy rainstorm caused many to leave, and unfortunately, Jang, who had been identified by his family as unable to swim, was left behind.
Following the incident, both the fraternity and sorority were suspended by Dartmouth College, and those suspensions remain in place as investigations continue. Jang was affiliated with the Beta Alpha Omega fraternity.
In response to the situation, Dartmouth College issued a statement emphasizing the importance of safety within Greek life, stating, “Dartmouth has long valued the contributions that Greek organizations bring to the student experience, when they are operating within their stated values and standards. These organizations, as well as all Dartmouth students and community members, have a responsibility to ensure Dartmouth remains a safe, respectful, equitable, and inclusive community for students, faculty, and staff.”
Attempts to reach representatives from Alpha Phi for comment were unsuccessful.
