Clark Atlanta University suspended its marching band for suspicion of hazing, according to a statement released Thursday by the university.
The university suspended performances of its “Mighty Marching Panthers” Marching Band in “light of an allegation regarding the possibility of hazing within ranks. There is, however, no immediate evidence of hazing or any other foul play, according to the statement.
“The University of its own volition chooses to take a thorough, comprehensive look into this serious matter,” according to the statement.
“Even the possibility of hazing is unacceptable under any circumstance,” the university wrote. “Therefore, an investigation will commence immediately. The University aims to be thorough, comprehensive and aggressive in its review.”
Clark Atlanta hopes the “allegations prove untrue,” so their band can quickly return to its “planned schedule of performances.” But the university said it’s prepared take the necessary actions to “ensure a safe, healthy, non-threatening experience for our student musicians,” regardless of the findings.
“The integrity of our University, our band program and the honor of the musicians therein warrants no less,” the university wrote.
Florida A&M’s famous “Marching 100” Marching Band is at the center of a hazing controversy that left a 26-year-old drum major dead. Robert Champion died Nov. 19, 2011 following a football game.
Orange Country detectives learned at least four separate hazings occurred on the percussion bus the day of Champion’s death. One hazing ritual called “Bus C crossing” prompts a band member to run a gauntlet in which other band members on the bus beats him or her.
Champion met his untimely demise when he engaged in this deadly ritual. Investigators are continuing their investigation in the case.
Head over to Collegiate NetVision to view videos of the “Mighty Marching Panthers” in action by clicking here.
Want to #ShareYourKnowledge? Sign up to become a member of kollegekidd.com by clicking here.
For Updates, Be sure to Follow kollegekidd.com on Twitter @_KollegeKidd by clicking here.
You can also stay up-to-date by liking kollegekidd.com FaceBook Page by clicking here
