Arizona College Student Dies from Alcohol Poisoning at Fraternity Rush Party

An 18-year-old Northern Arizona University student died from alcohol poisoning after consuming excessive vodka during a fraternity initiation event. Three fraternity leaders face potential charges in connection with Colin Daniel Martinez's death on January 31st.

An 18-year-old college student at Northern Arizona University has died from alcohol poisoning after consuming dangerous amounts of vodka during a fraternity initiation activity, according to an autopsy report made public Monday.

Colin Daniel Martinez was discovered unconscious on January 31st and medical personnel were unable to revive him, according to the official report. The autopsy revealed his blood-alcohol concentration reached 0.425% — over five times Arizona’s legal driving threshold and at levels typically considered lethal.

Authorities have taken three Delta Tau Delta fraternity officers into custody in connection with Martinez’s death.

The Coconino County Attorney’s Office announced Monday they are examining the circumstances to decide if formal criminal charges should be filed against the three officers, all age 20 when the incident occurred. Law enforcement arrested them on suspected hazing violations.

Court records from the previous month indicate Martinez was one of four fraternity hopefuls who consumed two vodka bottles as part of an initiation requirement designed to make them sick. Some witnesses suggested the alcohol may have been mixed with water to reduce its strength.

According to legal documents, people present attempted to help Martinez throughout the evening by repositioning him while he slept, monitoring his vital signs, and researching alcohol poisoning warning signs online.

Following Martinez’s death, university officials immediately suspended the fraternity chapter. The national Delta Tau Delta organization subsequently decided to permanently close the Northern Arizona University chapter.