# Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity hazing incident in Madison

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/alpha-epsilon-pi-fraternity-hazing-incident-in-madison
> Updated: 2026-09-30T19:58:48.000Z. Sources: 32. Developments: 3.

Madison police arrested the president and vice president of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, Brayden J. Klein and Samuel N. Vane, following a hazing incident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 

Responding to an anonymous tip, officers entered a fraternity residence on Langdon Street and found approximately 30 partially clothed men, most of whom were 18 years old, in a basement. The environment was described as hot and humid, with the thermostat set to 81 degrees. The individuals were reportedly covered in food, condiments, and other liquids. Police noted that several people exhibited visible injuries, including redness and marks, that were “consistent with being physically assaulted.” 

Klein and Vane, both 20, were taken to the Dane County Jail and face misdemeanor charges of hazing and disorderly conduct. Although the University of Wisconsin previously terminated this chapter in 2015, the group remains recognized by its national organization. 

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has launched an investigation, noting that students found in violation of university policy may face sanctions ranging from reprimands to expulsion. 

Following the incident, the Alpha Epsilon Pi national headquarters issued a cease-and-desist order, suspending all programming for the Madison chapter. This suspension encompasses new member meetings, social events, and philanthropy activities. The national organization stated it is cooperating with investigators, supports prosecution to the fullest extent of the law, and will expel any members found responsible.

A news segment by WISN 12 reporter TJ Dysart covering the incident has since gone viral on social media. In the footage, a student responded to a question regarding involvement in the hazing by saying, “Relax, pal,” before walking away. The exchange has become a widespread internet meme on platforms such as TikTok.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-30: Madison police arrest two men following fraternity hazing investigation

Two men were arrested following a fraternity hazing investigation at the University of Wisconsin-Madison involving 30 injured pledges. A reporter's interaction during the coverage has since gone viral.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/madison-police-arrest-two-men-following-fraternity-hazing-investigation

### 2026-09-27: Alpha Epsilon Pi chapter suspended amid Madison hazing investigation

Two men were arrested in Madison, Wisconsin, following a police investigation into violent hazing at the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity, leading the national organization to suspend the chapter.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alpha-epsilon-pi-chapter-suspended-amid-madison-hazing-investigation

### 2026-09-24: Alpha Epsilon Pi leaders arrested in Wisconsin hazing investigation

Two fraternity leaders were arrested in Madison, Wisconsin, after police found 30 partially clothed pledges covered in food and condiments in a sweltering basement during a suspected hazing ritual.

29 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/alpha-epsilon-pi-leaders-arrested-after-madison-fraternity-hazing-incident

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Cite as: Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity hazing incident in Madison. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/alpha-epsilon-pi-fraternity-hazing-incident-in-madison