In September 2018, 20-year-old Tyler Hilliard, a student at UC Riverside, attended a fraternity event at Mount Rubidoux, a well-known hiking destination. He was just a week away from starting his junior year when the event took a tragic turn.
That day was known as “gold paddle day,” according to text messages found on Hilliard’s phone. Reports at the time revealed that members of Alpha Phi Alpha subjected him to extreme hazing rituals, including consuming an onion drenched in hot sauce, drinking excessive amounts of water, and being struck with a piece of a cactus.
Hilliard was rushed to the hospital, where his heart stopped multiple times before he was ultimately pronounced dead. His family and authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, suspecting hazing as the cause. However, no charges were filed against those involved.
Now, nearly seven years later, a new California law aims to prevent similar tragedies.
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A New Era of Hazing Accountability
Named in Hilliard’s honor, “Tyler’s Law” (AB 2193) was signed into law in September 2023. This legislation expands California’s hazing regulations, increasing the legal responsibility of universities. Beginning in 2026, colleges across the state can be held liable if they were aware of, or should have been aware of, hazing incidents but failed to take action.
Hilliard’s mother, Myeasha Kimble, expressed both grief and relief at a recent press conference, reflecting on the difficult years since her son’s passing.
“It’s been a long time coming,” she said, holding back tears. “The pain we have endured is immeasurable.”
Holding Institutions Responsible
Under the new law, universities must compile and publish an annual report documenting hazing incidents, along with details on whether they were connected to specific student organizations. The legislation underscores the expectation that schools take a more active role in preventing dangerous initiation practices.
Attorney V. James Desimone emphasized the law’s importance in ensuring institutional accountability.
“This law sends a clear message—if fraternities are affiliated with a university, the school must enforce safety regulations,” he said. “Hazing is illegal, and those responsible will be held accountable.”
Many students believe the law is a necessary step forward. Dorian Hu, a USC student pledging a fraternity, shared his perspective with KTLA, saying universities should take responsibility when hazing occurs.
“The school’s name is tied to these organizations,” Hu said. “It makes sense that they should be held accountable.”
With Tyler’s Law set to take effect in 2026, advocates hope it will serve as a deterrent to dangerous fraternity hazing, ensuring that no other family has to endure a similar tragedy.
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