Family of student who died to push for more anti-hazing laws

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Family members of a Virginia college student who died after an alleged hazing incident said they’re still seeking justice in his death.

WRIC-TV reported Monday that the family of Adam Oakes will fight for stronger anti-hazing legislation.

The family said it also wants to create a non-profit to educate kids who are transitioning from high school to college about alcohol and fraternities.

Eric Oakes, Adam’s father, said he cries every morning over his son’s death.

Virginia Commonwealth University has hired an outside firm to review the school’s Greek culture following the death of the freshman in late February.

Dyad Strategies will conduct an independent review. Police are conducting their own investigation into the death at an off-campus residence.

VCU suspended the Delta Chi fraternity chapter after Oakes’ death..

Police and university officials have not said how Oakes died. But Oakes’ family said he was ordered to drink large amounts of whiskey at a hazing event and then blindfolded. Family members say he ran into a tree. He was found unresponsive the next morning on a couch, the family said.

The consultants’ report is expected to be complete by June.