A summer gathering at Dartmouth College's Alpha Phi sorority house ended in devastating circumstances when a 20-year-old student lost his life after an impromptu swimming decision.

According to the New York Post, two Dartmouth College students and a sorority are now facing charges following the death of Won Jang, whose body was recovered from the Connecticut River after attending an off-campus party where alcohol was served to underage students.

Matthew Catrambone and Samuel Terry, members of the Beta Alpha Omega fraternity, have been charged with providing alcohol to minors.

Alpha Phi sorority faces corporate charges for facilitating an underage alcohol house, marking a significant development in the investigation of the July 2024 incident.

Fatal Night Reveals Sequence of Events Leading to Tragedy

The events unfolded during Dartmouth's Sophomore Summer program, a special term designed for rising juniors to experience a more relaxed academic environment.

Won Jang, a biomedical engineering major from Middletown, Delaware, attended the party where his fraternity brothers allegedly provided him with alcoholic beverages. Police investigations revealed that most attendees were below the legal drinking age of 21.

Toxicology reports showed Jang's blood alcohol content was 0.167%, more than twice the legal driving limit. This crucial detail emerged as investigators pieced together the circumstances leading to his drowning. The situation took a dire turn when partygoers made an impulsive decision to swim in the Connecticut River.

A sudden heavy rainstorm scattered the group of swimmers, creating chaos and confusion. In the ensuing scramble for shelter, no one immediately noticed Jang's absence. The tragic irony of the situation became apparent when authorities learned that Jang did not know how to swim, a fact his family later disclosed to investigators.

Law Enforcement Response and Legal Consequences

Hanover Police Department's investigation resulted in multiple charges against individuals and organizations involved. The misdemeanor charges against Catrambone and Terry specifically address their role in providing alcohol to underage students. Alpha Phi's corporate charge reflects the broader institutional responsibility in the incident.

Law enforcement officials found Jang's body approximately 65 feet from the riverbank following a search operation. The discovery came after he was reported missing the day after the party. The location and circumstances of his recovery provided crucial evidence for the subsequent investigation.

The charges represent a significant development in addressing underage drinking at college events. They also highlight the potential consequences of combining alcohol consumption with dangerous activities, particularly in locations like rivers where conditions can be unpredictable.

Dartmouth College Addresses Greek Life Safety Standards

Dartmouth College issued an official statement regarding the incident. The administration emphasized both the value and responsibilities of Greek organizations on campus:

Dartmouth has long valued the contributions that Greek organizations bring to the student experience, when they are operating within their stated values and standards. These organizations, as well as all Dartmouth students and community members, have a responsibility to ensure Dartmouth remains a safe, respectful, equitable, and inclusive community for students, faculty, and staff.

The incident has prompted discussions about safety protocols and alcohol policies within campus organizations. College administrators are reviewing existing guidelines while maintaining support for Greek life's positive aspects when properly managed.

Lessons to Learn From This Tragedy

1. Responsible Alcohol Consumption: It is crucial for individuals, especially those overseeing events, to strictly adhere to laws regarding alcohol to prevent impaired judgment that could lead to dangerous situations.

2. Safety in Recreational Activities: Students should assess the risks of activities, particularly in settings influenced by alcohol. Non-swimmers particularly should avoid bodies of water, regardless of peer pressure or group activities.

3. Emergency Preparedness: Understand and prepare for natural conditions such as storms, which can abruptly turn a situation deadly. It's vital to respect weather advisories and avoid unnecessary risks during such events.

This tragic event illustrates that even with precautions, unforeseen accidents can happen, emphasizing that victims should never be blamed for the crimes committed against them but rather that the focus should be on preventative measures and respectful behavior.

Why This Story Matters

The loss of Won Jang is a profound reminder of the vulnerabilities associated with student life and the impact of Greek life culture. It highlights the need for stringent oversight and compliance with campus regulations to safeguard the student body.

As the Dartmouth community mourns, it must also reflect on the efficacy of its policies on alcohol and student activities, ensuring that its educational environment supports safety and inclusivity above all.

In conclusion, the charges against Matthew Catrambone, Samuel Terry, and the Alpha Phi sorority emphasize the potentially fatal consequences of negligence and irresponsibility, particularly within environments designed to foster growth and learning. The death of Won Jang is not just a legal issue but a moral call to action to prevent such tragedies in the future.