A shocking story is unfolding in Syracuse, New York, where high school lacrosse players were told to turn themselves in over a serious hazing incident that authorities say crossed the line into potential criminal behavior.
According to NBC News, the incident involved multiple older students from Westhill High School’s lacrosse team who allegedly lured younger teammates into a disturbing and violent prank that has now triggered potential felony charges. The most alarming part? One victim was reportedly tied to a tree in the woods after being blindfolded and stuffed in the trunk of a car.
District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick issued a public statement giving the students 48 hours to turn themselves in, warning that failure to comply would result in felony kidnapping charges.
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Inside the Hazing: From McDonald’s to the Woods
The incident occurred on April 21, when a group of younger lacrosse players were reportedly tricked by upperclassmen into what started as a casual outing. One victim told police that he was invited to McDonald’s for food by older players.
Instead of returning home, the driver veered off into the woods and pretended to be lost. Things escalated fast.
“The individual had a pillowcase placed over his head, he was tied up and placed in the trunk of a car,” said DA Fitzpatrick. According to reports, the teens involved in the act were dressed in all black, and one of them allegedly had a knife and a handgun. The scene was recorded on video.
The young victim was eventually tied to a tree and left behind. Fitzpatrick added that the victim “thought he was going to be abandoned in the middle of nowhere.”
Four other victims were able to escape, but the psychological trauma and threat of violence were real and lasting.
Criminal Charges Loom: Kidnapping and Unlawful Imprisonment
Authorities have taken this incident very seriously, especially due to the threatening behavior and presence of weapons. District Attorney Fitzpatrick confirmed that if the students do not voluntarily turn themselves in, they will face charges of:
- Potential weapons charges (pending investigation into the reported knife and handgun)
- Felony kidnapping
- Unlawful imprisonment
Accountability Demanded After High School Lacrosse Hazing Turns Criminal
The disturbing case where high school lacrosse players were told to turn themselves in over a serious hazing incident is more than just another school scandal. It’s a wake-up call.
What was once seen as “team bonding” crossed into violent, criminal behavior—and the consequences are catching up. With felony charges pending, families, schools, and communities are being forced to confront just how dangerous hazing can become when boundaries are ignored.
