A community in shock: UTC students burned in disturbing incident

From Local 3 News: Two University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) students, Kaiden Bates and Jason Marquardt, are recovering after suffering severe burns last Wednesday near the West Dormitory by the tennis courts.

Bates expressed gratitude for their survival, saying, "We are blessed to be alive."
The university confirmed the incident, which has drawn widespread attention and concern among the student body.

The national chapter of Kappa Sigma Fraternity also acknowledged that both students involved are members of their organization. In response to the situation, Kappa Sigma released a statement indicating that operations at their UTC chapter are suspended pending an investigation.

Students on campus are grappling with disbelief over the incident. “It's shocking to hear it,” remarked one student. Another added, “OMG, that’s crazy,” reflecting a sentiment of disbelief shared by many.

Shortly after the incident, UTC administration sent out an email alerting students to a serious event on campus, although the message lacked specific details. One student commented, “They are not very specific; they just want us to know when something serious happens.”

Kappa Sigma’s chapter at UTC has faced scrutiny before, having been placed on probation twice in the past five years. Many students are aware of the fraternity's reputation and are not surprised by its involvement in this incident.

“It’s not shocking to hear about this fraternity in the news,” one student stated.

Bates has since spoken with Local 3 via text  emphasizing his focus on recovery. He also clarified on social media that he and Marquardt accidentally ignited themselves and that the fraternity was not involved in the incident.

The pressures of Greek life are not lost on many UTC students. One student noted, “I feel like a lot of peer pressure was involved, especially in Greek life. People really want to fit in and belong in those kinds of things.”

Currently, Bates is recovering at home with 10% of his body burned, while Marquardt remains hospitalized with 25% of his body affected. As the community seeks answers, many are left reflecting on the circumstances that led to this tragic event and the implications for campus life moving forward.

Bates' family posted a link online to help provide him with meals during his time of recovery. If you would like to help, click here.