Prosecutor: Criminal probe at standstill in Clemson death

PICKENS, S.C. (AP) – Despite a new witness account, a prosecutor says the criminal investigation into the death of a Clemson University student remains at a standstill.

News media outlets reported this week that the witness account was contained in documents filed in a $25 million civil lawsuit. According to the reports, the witness said Tucker Hipps was forced to walk on a narrow bridge railing before falling to his death last September while pledging for a fraternity.

Solicitor Chrissy Adams says deputies earlier interviewed the witness.

She says the witness waited a long time to come forward, didn’t recall what day he saw students on the bridge and said the students were having a good time, which would not indicate hazing.

She says unless any other leads come in, the criminal investigation remains at a standstill.