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Lawsuit Against NIU Fraternity Dismissed In Drinking Death

Bogenberger Family Photo

A Cook County judge has thrown out a lawsuit against a fraternity in the death of a Northern Illinois University student.

In 2012, 19-year-old David Bogenberger died after a night of heavy drinking at the fraternity he was pledging, Pi Kappa Alpha. Toxicology results showed his blood alcohol content was about five times that of the legal limit for driving.

Bogenberger’s family sued the fraternity, arguing its members were responsible for his death. He and other pledges had attended an event at the fraternity house the night of his death.

Cook County Judge Kathy Flanagan ruled the family’s lawyer did not prove the fraternity had violated the state’s anti-hazing law by requiring Bogenberger to drink alcohol to join.

There are still criminal charges pending against some of the former fraternity members.

Susan is an award-winning reporter/writer at her favorite radio station. She's also WNIJ's Perspectives editor, Under Rocks contributor, and local host of All Things Considered.
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