For the past several months, investigations into the death of a Florida A&M band member have been ongoing. According to reports, Robert Champion was the victim of brutal hazing rituals at the hands of his fellow band members. He suffered traumatic blows to his head and severe bleeding. Information continues to become available in his wrongful death.

Previously, no charges had been filed, and the band director was placed on administrative leave after the tragic accident. Various claims say that a group of students beat the young man and the band director knew about the hazing, but did not act to stop it.

Now a lawsuit has been officially filed by Champion's parents against the owner and driver of the bus where the beating took place.

On the day of the incident, the student was forced to endure vicious hazing rituals. He had to walk from the front to the back of the bus while being kicked, dragged and slapped by other band members. He also had his breathing restricted while being forced to answer questions. He was only permitted to take a breath if he answered the question correctly.

The lawsuit states that the bus company knew that this hazing was an ongoing practice on their buses but did nothing to stop them. It is also reported that bus drivers were encouraged to ignore the situation. When the young man got off the bus to vomit, the driver forced him back on where the hazing continued.

Much attention has been paid to the shocking practice of hazing rituals in Florida schools. Since this incident, committees and panels have been formed to confront the issue. Unfortunately, the behavior continues. In many cases, the hazing results in both emotional damage and physical damage. Victims of this horrible behavior have a right to seek justice against those who have caused them pain and suffering.

Source: Orlando Sentinel, "Suit: Bus driver stood by while Champion was beaten," Denise-Marie Balona, Feb. 13, 2012