Mystery after Cal State Fullerton student, 18, dies following frat gathering
Por Paul Farrell — – World RSS Feed
Mystery after Cal State Fullerton student, 18, dies following frat gathering
Investigators do not suspect that hazing was a contributing factor in the death of Blas
Paul Farrell Wednesday 16 September 2026 16:07 BST
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Fullerton police officers have requested assistance from the public in their ongoing investigation into the death of an 18-year-old Cal State Fullerton student who died of suspected alcohol poisoning following a fraternity event.
Emergency services were alerted when the unconscious teenager was dropped off at the emergency room of St. Jude Medical Center shortly after midnight on Sunday. The student, identified as Anthony Joseph Blas, was pronounced dead shortly afterward at the hospital, according to statements from the police.
Earlier that evening, Blas had been present at an “unaffiliated” fraternity gathering held near the intersection of Associated Road and Milton Avenue, law enforcement confirmed.
open image in galleryDetectives indicated that alcohol consumption appears to have played a role in his death, though an official cause of death remains pending and could take a period of several weeks to formally determine.
Investigators do not suspect that hazing was a contributing factor in the death of Blas. Law enforcement also does not suspect foul play.
Fullerton police Sgt. Ryan O’Neil declined to clarify who brought Blas to the medical center or state whether officers have questioned the person responsible for dropping him off.
This death represents the second tragedy to impact the Cal State Fullerton community within less than a 12-month period, following the earlier loss of soccer star Lauren Turner, who passed away after a horrific crash left her in a coma.
open image in galleryTurner, a 19-year-old Cal State Fullerton student, was struck by a box truck while riding an e-scooter off campus on September 27 alongside her teammate Ashlyn Gwynn. Officers located both women in the street suffering from severe, life-threatening injuries, according to local news reports.
Having suffered severe head trauma, Turner fought for her life in the intensive care unit for nearly six weeks before passing away on November 7, the university announced on Monday.
Tributes have poured in honoring the defensive midfielder, whom teammates remembered as charismatic and loving, and whose impact on the Titans women’s soccer program was described as immeasurable.
In a formal statement released by the team, her peers expressed: “Lauren was the funniest, most charismatic, and loving teammate you could ever ask for. She was the first to celebrate other people’s wins.
“She is the true definition of an amazing person. She always carried herself with compassion, kindness, and happiness. The impact she made on the Titans women’s soccer program is immeasurable. She will be dearly missed by everyone but forever remembered by her Titan family.
“We love you Lauren, our No. 5 Forever.”
Anyone holding relevant information for the ongoing investigation is encouraged to contact Fullerton police Detective Eric Carrillo by calling 714-738-5361 or emailing eric.carillo@fullertonpd.org. Anonymous tips are also being accepted through Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS.
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