In news filed under WOW, the University of Alabama announced earlier today that fraternity pledging will be cancelled for the remainder of the year, effective immediately. 

Via Alabama's newspaper, The Crimson White:

Assistant Dean of Students Lowell Davis announced the cancellation of University of Alabama fraternity pledgeship today at 12:30 p.m. in a meeting with Interfraternity Council fraternity presidents. Davis stated fraternities should begin initiation of new members as soon as possible.

“No hell week is to take place and, I quote, if hell week does take place, there will be hell to pay from the University of Alabama,” Davis said. “So please, understand that we take any allegation seriously and that we will not continue to let anything happen as it revolves around pledgeship here at the University of Alabama.”

The sudden announcement came after an anonymous email sent to the Crimson White and school administrators called for the overhaul of Greek life. As stated in the press conference above, the school is investigating numerous fraternities for hazing allegations. Below is the DKE rush chair sounding off on the unexpected firestorm.

Obviously, there are A LOT of shitty things about the surprising announcement. Well have more on this as it comes. 

[H/T: TFM]