Cindy Hipps Honored Son on 12th Death Anniversary
Cindy Hipps continues her long-standing advocacy to raise awareness about hazing dangers.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Cindy Hipps has marked the 12th anniversary of the death of her 19-year-old son, Tucker Hipps, who died during a fraternity event in 2014. She remains dedicated to educating college students on the severe consequences of hazing.
Why it matters
The mother aims to prevent future tragedies through awareness education while still seeking information about the specific circumstances of her son's death. She hopes that those present at the time will finally come forward to provide clarity.
Tucker Hipps was 19 years old when he was found dead beneath the Highway 93 bridge in Clemson. Investigators note that 28 fraternity pledges participated in the morning run associated with the death.
The players
Cindy Hipps
She is the mother of the deceased student and a vocal advocate against fraternity hazing.
Tucker Hipps
He was a 19-year-old student at Clemson University whose death prompted an investigation into fraternity hazing.
Sigma Phi Epsilon
This is the national fraternity chapter where the student was a pledge at the time of the incident.
The details
Tucker Hipps was a pledge of Sigma Phi Epsilon at Clemson University when he died during a morning fraternity run. Cindy Hipps travels to campuses, such as the University of West Georgia, to use personal storytelling to illustrate the impacts of hazing on families and the local community.
Timeline
September 22, 2014: Tucker Hipps died during a fraternity run.
September 22, 2026: The 12th anniversary of the death was observed.
The Big Picture
This story follows a pattern of ongoing advocacy and unresolved investigative questions set by the 2014 Tucker Hipps hazing incident. The case remains a defining reference point for university safety policies regarding fraternity pledging activities.
The public is encouraged to contact the Oconee County Sheriff's office with any information regarding the 2014 incident. Individuals can provide tips through the 1-844-71-CRIME contact line to assist investigators.
The takeaway
Cindy Hipps continues to emphasize that family stories are a powerful tool for shifting campus culture away from dangerous hazing rituals. Her ongoing advocacy serves as a reminder of the long-term impact that these events have on the surrounding community.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts to promote student safety in the Substance Abuse section.
More information
Submit any relevant information through the Crime Stoppers information submission site.
