In a troubling case that has shaken the Syracuse community, eleven high school lacrosse players from Westhill High School have turned themselves in to authorities after being accused of a violent hazing incident involving younger teammates.
The students, whose names are not being released due to their ages, are facing misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment. The accusations center around an elaborate and frightening prank that prosecutors say went far beyond hazing.
The incident unfolded after a lacrosse game last Thursday, when older players allegedly lured five younger teammates into a vehicle under the false promise of a trip to McDonald’s. According to Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, the group instead drove the students to a remote area. There, other players—dressed in black and wielding what appeared to be a knife and a gun—jumped out of the woods, pretending to be kidnappers.
At least one student was unable to escape and was subjected to a terrifying ordeal. He was blindfolded with a pillowcase, tied up, and locked in the trunk of a car before being abandoned in a separate wooded area. Though the boy was eventually returned home, officials say the psychological toll of the experience may be long-lasting. Fitzpatrick, who viewed video evidence of the incident, said the actions captured on tape were disturbing and not taken seriously by the perpetrators. Laughter can reportedly be heard in the footage.
The DA made a public offer to the suspects earlier this week: surrender within 48 hours and face misdemeanor charges, or risk prosecution for felony kidnapping if caught later. All eleven individuals complied. Most of the suspects are underage and will be processed through family court. At least one, believed to be over 18, could be eligible for Youthful Offender status, which would seal his record if convicted.
Though the current charges are misdemeanors, the district attorney stressed that the crime itself is serious and could have led to felony charges had the suspects not turned themselves in. The case has drawn attention not only for its severity but for reigniting questions about hazing in youth sports and the responsibilities of schools and coaches to prevent such behavior.
The investigation remains open, and more individuals could be implicated as details emerge. Officials are urging the community to reflect on the line between team bonding and abuse, warning that acts like this can leave deep scars on victims and lasting consequences for those involved.