Maryland Delts Served Alcohol at Parties; May Have Caused 2005 Deaths

Fraternity Named in Scrocca Lawsuit

A former brother of Delta Tau Delta's chapter at the University of Maryland said his fraternity didn't live up to its motto, which says "committed to lives of excellence," in the 2005 death of his roommate.

Stephen "Tex" Aarons has sued Delta Tau Delta, saying that the fraternity's "chaotic environment" contributed to the April 2005 death of his roommate Michael Scrocca, who died in a fire following a frat party at their house. He says that the fraternity has done little to change its image since the fatality, and continues to endorse drinking as a part of college life.

Daniel Murray, who was convicted for starting the fire, has been sentenced to more than 37 years in prison. Aarons' claims that the parties drunken atmosphere the night of the fatal blaze encouraged the fire.

Delta Tau Delta's lawyers denied in court that the party was sponsored by the fraternity. After the fire, four kegs and several cases of malt liquor were found at the scene.