Six CU Boulder Students Hospitalized After Suspected Drug Overdoses at Party”10 Confirmed Dead

Six CU Boulder Students Hospitalized After Suspected Drug Overdoses at Kappa Sigma Fraternity Party

Six University of Colorado Boulder students were hospitalized on the night of December 7, 2024, after attending a party hosted by the off-campus Kappa Sigma fraternity. Authorities suspect that a combination of drugs and alcohol led to the medical emergencies, prompting widespread concern across the CU Boulder community.

Emergency responders arrived at the Kappa Sigma house on Pennsylvania Avenue around 10 p.m., where they found multiple students displaying symptoms consistent with drug overdoses. First responders administered Naloxone, a medication used to counter the effects of opioid overdose, before transporting the students to local hospitals for further treatment.

Initial reports indicated that the students may have ingested cocaine possibly laced with unknown substances. However, Boulder Police later clarified that the overdoses appeared to result from a mix of excessive alcohol consumption and drug use. Authorities ruled out fentanyl as a contributing factor after conducting further investigations.

The Kappa Sigma fraternity has not been officially recognized by CU Boulder since 2015, when it was expelled following repeated violations related to student safety. Despite its status, the fraternity has continued to operate unofficially and host events off-campus.

Following the incident, CU Boulder administrators issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to student safety. The university’s Division of Student Affairs, along with Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) and the Office of Victim Assistance (OVA), have been reaching out to the affected students to offer support and counseling services.

The event has sparked broader conversations on campus regarding the dangers of substance use and the responsibilities of student organizations. Many students have expressed that the incident serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the importance of making informed and safe decisions regarding drugs and alcohol.

In response to growing concerns, CU Boulder continues to provide harm reduction resources, including free Naloxone kits and fentanyl test strips, to students. Educational programs on substance safety and awareness are also being promoted across campus.

Boulder Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities are examining whether hazing or other fraternity-related misconduct contributed to the situation. They have encouraged anyone with information to come forward and contact the Boulder Police tip line at 303-441-1974, referencing case number 24-12864.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in promoting student safety in environments where unofficial organizations continue to operate outside the oversight of campus regulations. As the investigation continues, CU Boulder students, faculty, and the greater Boulder community await further developments.