Six University of Colorado Boulder students were rushed to the hospital after overdosing on drugs at an off-campus fraternity party Saturday night.
Boulder Police suspect the drugs, believed to be cocaine, were tainted with other harmful substances.
Overdose Details Emerge
Police responded to calls from the Kappa Sigma fraternity house, an expelled chapter located on Pennsylvania Avenue, between 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Saturday.
When officers arrived, they found partygoers visibly sick, vomiting, and in distress.
First responders quickly administered naloxone, a medication that reverses the effects of opioid overdoses, potentially saving lives.
Investigators believe the students consumed a batch of cocaine that may have been mixed with unknown dangerous substances.
Alcohol was also heavily present at the party, further complicating the situation.
Although one student’s condition was initially considered life-threatening, all are now expected to make a full recovery.
Fraternity’s Troubled Past
The Kappa Sigma fraternity was expelled from CU Boulder in 2015 due to multiple safety and welfare violations, including serious concerns about student well-being.
Despite this, the group has continued to operate unofficially off-campus, hosting events like the party where the overdoses occurred.
Police are now investigating whether the drug incident is connected to fraternity pledging activities.
The possibility of hazing has raised significant concerns within the community.
Boulder Police are urging anyone with information about what happened at the party to contact their tip line as part of the ongoing investigation.
CU Responds to Crisis
The University of Colorado Boulder has reiterated its commitment to student safety and well-being in light of this alarming incident.
University officials stated they provide various programs to educate students about alcohol, drugs, and making safer decisions.
They also collaborate with Boulder County Public Health on harm reduction and awareness efforts.
Following the overdoses, the Kappa Sigma fraternity’s national governing body announced the suspension of the chapter’s operations pending an investigation.
Meanwhile, CU Boulder’s Division of Student Affairs is considering disciplinary action for any students involved in the incident.
University leaders are calling for stronger measures to ensure such events are not repeated in the future.
