FAMU Scandal: Robert Champion's Death Officially Ruled Homicide by Hazing

Categories: News
robertchamps.jpg
The autopsy of deceased FAMU marching band drum major Robert Champion has been completed, and his death has officially been ruled a homicide. Medical examiners ruled Champion's death was "the result of hemorrhagic shock due to soft tissue hemorrhage, incurred by blunt force trauma sustained during a hazing incident."


According to the report released by the Orange-Osceola Medical Examiner's Office, the autopsy "revealed extensive contusions of his chest, arms, shoulder, and back with extensive hemorrhage."

No broken bones or damaged organs were found, but Champion experienced rapid blood loss due to the blunt trauma. Champion went into shock after being injured. 

Champion died November 19 shortly after the band played during the halftime show of the FAMU-Bethune Cookman game near Orlando. It's believed the hazing ritual took place on the band's bus after the game. 

The incident has caused the entire band to be placed on suspension. Longtime director Dr. Julius White might be fired, and Gov. Rick Scott has called for the suspension of school president James Ammons. The investigation into FAMU has also uncovered fraud, which is now being handled separately. Three other band members were arrested for a separate hazing incident that also took place in November and that left a band member's leg broken. 

My Voice Nation Help
0 comments
Sort: Newest | Oldest

From the Vault

 

©2013 Miami New Times, LLC, All rights reserved.
Browse Voice Nation
  • Voice Places Miami

    Voice Places

    Find everything you're looking for in your city

  • Happy Hour App

    Happy Hour App

    Find the best happy hour deals in your city

  • Daily Deals

    Daily Deals

    Get today's exclusive deals at savings of anywhere from 50-90%

  • Best Of

    Best Of...

    Check out the hottest list of places and things to do around your city