By Lynn Hatter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-997486.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – The hazing death of a Florida A&M University band member has been ruled a homicide. Lynn Hatter reports, Medical examiners say Robert Champion died of internal bleeding from blunt force trauma.
Robert Champion had bruises to his chest, arms, shoulders and back. He also suffered soft-tissue bleeding which caused him to go into shock. He later died following a mid-November football game.
The conclusion reached by the Medical Examiner's office says collapsed and died within an hour of a hazing incident during which he suffered multiple blunt trauma blows to his body.
Champion's death and the ensuing investigation have led to the band's indefinite suspension, the university president being pressured to step down, and a separate investigation into the band's finances.
Three band members are facing felony battery charges for a separate hazing event that occurred prior to Champion's death which left the victim with a cracked femur and bruising.