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Family files lawsuit against Drexel frat brothers

Published  July 21, 2017 8:01am EDT
U.S.
FOX 29 Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The parents of a former Drexel University student have filed a lawsuit against several fraternity members after their son was severely injured in a fight.

Roderick and Elizabeth McGibbon say their 23-year-old son, Ian, would have graduated if someone had reported his injuries immediately after the fight Sept. 12, 2015.

Instead, the family says they found their son in the fraternity house in Philadelphia the next day "unconscious" and "covered in blood and vomit."

The civil lawsuit filed Thursday alleges neglect by three Pi Kappa Phi members. The family is also suing two Delta Sigma Phi members, who they say were involved in the fight.

Drexel officials say police had investigated the fight and determined no charges would be filed.

Drexel University released the following statement Thursday:

"The Drexel University community continues to convey its steadfast sympathy and support to Ian McGibbon and his family throughout his recovery.

Student safety is of paramount concern to the University, and the campus community works diligently to provide a safe environment for all of its students, faculty and staff. In addition to campus security, Drexel's police department, the Drexel Guardian mobile safety monitoring system, the DrexelAlert system, and the "See-Something-Say-Something" awareness campaign, the University provides training to its students, faculty and staff in bystander intervention.

Promoting healthy behaviors and student safety are primary goals for the University, and they can only be achieved through a concerted community effort. The "Responsible Dragon Protocol" provides complete amnesty from disciplinary action for students who report to the proper authorities for the intention of seeking medical or safety assistance for anyone in need of emergency care.

Throughout the University's history, Fraternity and Sorority Life has been an important part of the campus community. Along with the many other student organizations on campus, fraternities and sororities are part of the fabric of the student-experience. In partnership with the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Council and Multicultural Greek Council, the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life provides training around safety and healthy behaviors as it relates to events and activities. The University also provides opportunities for training and communication about these topics in regular meetings with student leadership."