Robert Champion Hazing Death: Parents of band member suing Florida A&M over his death
(CBS/AP) ORLANDO, Fla. - The parents of Florida A&M drum major Robert Champion, who died after allegedly being beaten by fellow band mates in a hazing incident, say they are suing the university.
Pictures: Florida A&M hazing case
Champion's parents say they're filing the lawsuit in Orlando on Wednesday, over six months after their son died after being hazed aboard a bus parked outside an Orlando hotel.
Eleven FAMU band members face felony hazing charges, while two others face misdemeanor counts for alleged roles in the hazing.
Champion's death put a spotlight on hazing at the school and led to the suspension of the school's famed marching band at least until next year. Critics say FAMU president James Ammons and other administrators ignored the hazing.
Documents recently revealed that FAMU's Dean of Students Henry Kirby and Police Chief Calvin Ross had urged administrators, only days before Champion's death, to suspend the marching band due to hazing issues.
Champion's parents, Robert and Pamela, already have sued the bus company, claiming the driver stood guard outside while the hazing took place. The company said the driver was helping band members with their equipment.
Complete coverage of the Florida A&M hazing case on Crimesider