Florida A&M University drum major Robert Champion, 26, died from blunt trauma in connection with a hazing incident. His death has been ruled a homicide doctors revealed in his autopsy.
STORY: Florida A&M Marching Band Member Robert Champion Killed By Hazing?
Robert died of internal bleeding caused by blunt force trauma, officials in Orlando said Friday.
According to authorities Robert had bruises on his chest, arms, shoulder and back.
As a result of Roberts death the culture of hazing within FAMU’s famed band, the “Marching 100” has been under a media microscope which led to the suspension of longtime band director Julian White.
Four students suspected of involvement in hazing were briefly expelled after his death, but later reinstated.
A criminal investigation is being led by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Any death involving hazing is a third-degree felony in Florida, but so far no charges have been filed.
