Missouri
Missouri student, victim of 'the worst fraternity hazing injury ever,' is 'alive for a reason': parents
On Oct. 19, 2021, Daniel “Danny” Santulli was blindfolded and shirtless when he was forced to drink a bottle of vodka taped to his hand at a fraternity pledge event. The incident left the University of Missouri freshman unable to see, walk or speak.
The case of the then-19-year-old, who suffered brain damage from severe alcohol poisoning, is being explored in A&E’s new true-crime docuseries, “Houses of Horror: Secrets of College Greek Life.”
The show details how Greek organizations can have “far-reaching consequences that can turn dangerous, even deadly.” It features interviews with former fraternity and sorority members, loved ones, law enforcement and other experts.
DRUM MAJOR’S HAZING LEFT HEARTBROKEN MOTHER WONDERING WHAT REALLY HAPPENED: ‘HE WAS BEATEN TO DEATH’
Daniel “Danny” Santulli, of Eden Prairie, Minnesota, was a student at the University of Missouri. (The Santulli Family)
The Santulli family has come forward to raise awareness about their son and the peer pressure they said he endured leading up to his life-altering injuries.
“Prior to the incident, he was very sleep-deprived,” Santulli’s mother, Mary Pat Santulli, told Fox News Digital. “[The fraternity was] draining his account… He was very drained… At that point, I talked to him and said, ‘Danny, you don’t have to go through this. You can quit. You have to do what’s best for you.’”
“He was… quiet about it,” the matriarch reflected. “And then two days later, this happened… I just couldn’t believe what took place that night.”
Mary Pat Santulli is seen here with her son Danny Santulli before his night of horror. (The Santulli Family)
According to the episode, Santulli broke down to his older sister Meredith. He was struggling with the recruitment of the fraternity Phi Gamma Delta. His grades were slipping.
Previously, he was hospitalized after an older member instructed him to climb inside a trash can filled with broken glass.
At the time of the incident that would rock his family, Santulli was taking part in a ritual called “pledge dad reveal night.” According to the series, Santulli was forced to drink hard liquor, followed by beer.
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A lawsuit contended that Danny Santulli and the rest of his pledge class at Phi Gamma Delta were each forced to drink a bottle of hard liquor given to them by their “pledge fathers.” (The Santulli Family)
Just before 11 p.m., a heavily intoxicated Santulli was seen in security camera footage losing his balance, and eventually falling backwards. Fraternity members then carried him to a nearby sofa. At one point, his head hit a tile floor.
Santulli’s limp body fell off the sofa at 12:30 a.m. and was not put back until 15 minutes later, when he was taken outside. While carrying Santulli to the door, the video footage showed members of the fraternity dropping him. He was then taken to the hospital in a car driven by fraternity members.
Santulli was found in cardiac arrest and not breathing inside the vehicle. Authorities said his blood alcohol content was 0.486%, six times the legal limit.
Students gather to honor Danny Santulli on the one-year anniversary of his hospitalization on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022 at Peace Park on the University of Missouri campus. (Imagn)
Santulli’s father, Tom Santulli, told Fox News Digital it was important for him to watch the painful footage for himself.
“People say, ‘Are you sure you want to see it?’ Yes, I want to see what happened to my son,” Tom explained. “I do want to see the abuse. I want to see exactly what happened. And yes, I was blown away. But then again, I said, ‘I’m glad [I saw it].’”
“Now we’re focused – now we’re on a mission, and we’re going to hold people accountable for what happened that evening,” the patriarch added.
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Daniel Santulli seen in undated family photo before the hazing incident. (Photo courtesy of Tom Santulli)
Santulli spent six weeks at the University of Missouri Hospital’s intensive care unit before moving to a rehab hospital in Colorado. As a result of the incident, doctors say he will need care for life. He has been described as a victim of “the worst fraternity hazing injury ever in the United States,” his family’s attorney said.
“I think Danny’s alive… because other kids were not as fortunate when there was a hazing incident,” said Tom. “… He’s alive for a reason.”
“This is real, [this] is happening [to other students],” chimed Mary Pat. “It will continue if fraternities and sororities are still going on. People need to be educated and we need to talk to our kids. We need to let them know what’s going on. [Parents] need to do their research and find out if any of these sororities or fraternities have had past violations, what the record is.”
Daniel Santulli suffered “massive brain damage” after an October 2021 hazing incident. (Photo courtesy of Tom Santulli)
Attorney David Bianchi, who represents the Santulli family and specializes in hazing litigation, said the student’s injury was not an isolated event.
“These are part of a pattern of unsafe and dangerous behavior that represents the traditions of the fraternity,” he said.
Since 2017, Phi Gamma Delta, also known as Fiji, had six documented violations of alcohol distribution policies and two hazing violations in Missouri, according to university records. The Missouri chapter has since been shut down following Santulli’s hospitalization.
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Today, the Minnesota resident has been making “great strides,” but the pain has not lessened for the family.
“Danny needs care 24/7,” Tom explained. “We are the main caregivers, my wife and I. We also have nurses come in. We have caregivers come in. We have different folks who focus on speech, occupational therapy and physical therapy. We also have appointments for Danny.”
“But from the accident in 2021 to now, he has improved,” Tom shared. “I’m not saying it’s significant, but he is making strides.”
Santulli’s story is far from over. Loved ones went on to file a civil lawsuit against the fraternity and 23 members. It was settled for an unspecified amount in 2022.
In May of this year, Ryan P. Delanty of Manchester, Missouri, pleaded guilty to supplying liquor to a minor and misdemeanor hazing, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Santulli’s “pledge dad” was sentenced to six months in jail, KRCGTV shared. According to the outlet, he will also spend six months on house arrest.
Another fraternity member, Thomas Shultz of Chesterfield, Missouri, previously pleaded guilty to supplying liquor to a minor. He was sentenced to 30 days in jail, two years of probation, and ordered to perform community service and complete a drug and alcohol education program.
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The University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. (Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
Alec Wetzler pleaded guilty to charges of supplying liquor to a minor or intoxicated person and purchase/attempt to purchase or possession of liquor by a minor, according to KRCG. Court records showed that Wetzler was handed a 180-day jail sentence, as well as two years of unsupervised probation. He was also ordered to pay a $500 fine.
The university has disciplined 13 former fraternity members, the Columbia Daily Tribune reported. A spokesperson did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
“Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with Danny and the Santulli family,” Executive Director of Phi Gamma Delta Rob Caudill previously said.
Danny Santulli today. (The Santulli Family)
“Danny should not have been put in such a situation,” said Caudill. “The International Fraternity prohibits hazing and the provision of alcohol to minors and expects all members to follow the law and our policies.
“We support anyone being held accountable for their conduct and the consequences that may result. The International Fraternity acted immediately to stop all activities of the chapter, which is now closed.”
As the school season gears up, Santulli’s family is determined to warn other parents. Mary Pat even suggested that students considering Greek life should wait at least one semester and speak with other members first to educate themselves and their loved ones.
“It’s very difficult to relive everything and talk about it,” she said. “But I feel… it’s important to make people aware of what is happening in Greek life. Hazing is real. And we just want to make people aware, so this tragedy doesn’t happen to another family.”
“Houses of Horror” airs Mondays at 9 p.m. The episode “Bingeing to Belong” is available for streaming. Fox News Digital’s Charles Creitz, Adam Sabes and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
As of Saturday, December 20, 2025, the sports world is delivering a massive weekend slate, with the NFL Week 16 doubleheader and a trio of College Football Playoff games leading the charge. To capitalize on this jam-packed schedule, Bet365 Sportsbook is making a major statement in Missouri. To maintain momentum during this critical launch month, Bet365 Missouri is offering an unmissable incentive for today’s action: the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE unlocks a guaranteed “Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets” promo for all new Missouri customers.
This bonus acts as a strategic outlier in the current market. While standard welcome bonuses in states like Virginia or Ohio often hover around $150, Missouri bettors activating the Bet365 bonus code today gain access to an additional $215 in guaranteed value. This $365 payout is currently one of the most powerful bankroll-builders available in the U.S. sports betting landscape.
Bet365 Bonus Code SYRACUSE: An Updated National Benchmark
The rollout of this promotion is perfectly timed for a Saturday featuring five marquee football games. The Bet365 bonus code structure prioritizes immediate flexibility. Unlike complex “second chance” offers that require a loss to activate, the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE delivers the $365 payout simply for placing a qualifying wager, regardless of the game’s outcome.
Key Deal Terms:
- Bonus Code: SYRACUSE
- Offer: Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets (Guaranteed).
- Value Differential: +$215 compared to national averages.
- Eligibility: New Missouri users only.
Today’s Headline Betting Events: NFL & CFP
The Bet365 bonus code is live just in time for a full day of football. Missouri bettors can use their qualifying $10 wager on any of the NFL or CFP matchups below to trigger the $365 bonus.
NFL Week 16 Spotlight
- Eagles vs. Commanders: A massive NFC East rivalry game kicking off at 5:00 PM ET at Northwest Stadium.
- Packers vs. Bears: One of the NFL’s oldest rivalries takes center stage at Soldier Field at 8:20 PM ET.
CFP Round 1 Spotlight
- Miami (FL) vs. Texas A&M: The day begins at 12:00 PM ET with a blockbuster at Kyle Field.
- Tulane vs. Ole Miss: The Rebels host the Green Wave at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium at 3:30 PM ET.
- James Madison vs. Oregon: The nightcap features the Dukes visiting Autzen Stadium at 7:30 PM ET.
Current Betting Odds
| Game | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami vs. Texas A&M | TAMU -3.5 | 50.5 | MIA +145, TAMU -154 |
| Tulane vs. Ole Miss | MISS -17.5 | 56.5 | TUL +625, MISS -850 |
| JMU vs. Oregon | ORE -21.5 | 47.5 | JMU +1160, ORE -2000 |
Note: Odds are subject to change.
By using the Bet365 bonus code to place a $10 wager on the Aggies to cover at home (-3.5) or a longshot moneyline bet on James Madison (+1160), new users will secure $365 in bonus bets to use on the rest of the weekend slate.
Full Saturday Schedule:
Once the Bet365 bonus code is activated, bettors can use their bonus funds on the NFL or College Football Playoff action:
- 12:00 PM ET: Miami (FL) vs. Texas A&M (CFP Round 1)
- 3:30 PM ET: Tulane vs. Ole Miss (CFP Round 1)
- 5:00 PM ET: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Commanders (FOX)
- 7:30 PM ET: James Madison vs. Oregon (CFP Round 1)
- 8:20 PM ET: Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears (FOX)
How to Activate the Bet365 Bonus Code SYRACUSE:
Claiming the elevated launch offer is simple, but requires the correct code during registration. Follow these instructions:
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Conclusion: A Super Saturday for Bet365 Missouri!
Bet365 Missouri is redefining the standard for new user value. By deploying the Bet365 bonus code SYRACUSE during this action-packed Saturday of professional and collegiate football, sports fans can lock in a premium $365 bonus, ensuring they have ample ammunition to tackle every snap, touchdown, and upset.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 21+ only. Must be physically located in MO. T&Cs Apply. In App Only.
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The Missouri Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at Dec. 19, 2025, results for each game:
Winning Mega Millions numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
01-11-27-39-59, Mega Ball: 18
Check Mega Millions payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 3 numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
Midday: 4-3-1
Midday Wild: 3
Evening: 3-6-5
Evening Wild: 9
Check Pick 3 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Pick 4 numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
Midday: 4-5-1-4
Midday Wild: 0
Evening: 5-5-4-1
Evening Wild: 2
Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash4Life numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
06-31-34-37-41, Cash Ball: 04
Check Cash4Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Cash Pop numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
Early Bird: 08
Morning: 05
Matinee: 15
Prime Time: 07
Check Cash Pop payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Show Me Cash numbers from Dec. 19 drawing
12-23-28-33-38
Check Show Me Cash payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
Are you a winner? Here’s how to claim your lottery prize
All Missouri Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes over $600, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Missouri Lottery’s regional offices, by appointment only.
To claim by mail, complete a Missouri Lottery winner claim form, sign your winning ticket, and include a copy of your government-issued photo ID along with a completed IRS Form W-9. Ensure your name, address, telephone number and signature are on the back of your ticket. Claims should be mailed to:
Ticket Redemption
Missouri Lottery
P.O. Box 7777
Jefferson City, MO 65102-7777
For in-person claims, visit the Missouri Lottery Headquarters in Jefferson City or one of the regional offices in Kansas City, Springfield or St. Louis. Be sure to call ahead to verify hours and check if an appointment is required.
For additional instructions or to download the claim form, visit the Missouri Lottery prize claim page.
When are the Missouri Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 10 p.m. Tuesday and Friday.
- Pick 3: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Pick 4: 12:45 p.m. (Midday) and 8:59 p.m. (Evening) daily.
- Cash4Life: 8 p.m. daily.
- Cash Pop: 8 a.m. (Early Bird), 11 a.m. (Late Morning), 3 p.m. (Matinee), 7 p.m. (Prime Time) and 11 p.m. (Night Owl) daily.
- Show Me Cash: 8:59 p.m. daily.
- Lotto: 8:59 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday.
- Powerball Double Play: 9:59 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Missouri editor. You can send feedback using this form.
Missouri’s attorney general has revealed which Chinese assets the state will be targeting in a $50 billion legal row.
The Show Me State’s legal battle with China has intensified as both sides pursue multibillion-dollar claims related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
And now, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has explained what is on the table in terms of what assets will be targeted in the litigation.
“China caused extraordinary harm to our citizens and our economy,” she told Newsweek. “We are committed to holding them accountable and recovering every dollar we can. I’ve been asked if we will seize the pandas at the National Zoo. The answer is no, we are looking at other Chinese-owned assets, including farmland.”
Why It Matters
The confrontation highlights ongoing diplomatic rifts between the United States and China and raises complex questions about international law, sovereign immunity, and the ability of U.S. states to seize foreign-owned property. The outcome could set precedents for future pandemic-related litigation and diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
What To Know
China recently filed a lawsuit in a Wuhan court against Missouri and several state officials, seeking more than $50 billion in damages and public apologies.
In response, Missouri is advancing efforts to enforce a $24 billion U.S. court judgment against the Chinese government and affiliated entities—by targeting certain Chinese-owned assets within the United States.
The current dispute stems from a 2020 lawsuit filed by Missouri, which alleged that China exacerbated the coronavirus pandemic by hoarding personal protective equipment (PPE) and failing to provide timely warnings regarding the virus.
Earlier this year, the Missouri Attorney General’s Office obtained a $24–$25 billion judgment against the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Communist Party, and related entities after Chinese officials declined to participate in the U.S. court process.
In response to Missouri’s legal success, China has now filed a $50.5 billion (356.4 billion yuan) lawsuit in the Intermediate People’s Court of Wuhan.
The complaint, jointly submitted by the Chinese government, Wuhan’s municipal government, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology, names the state of Missouri, Governor Mike Kehoe, U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt, and former Attorney General Andrew Bailey as defendants.
The Chinese lawsuit claims Missouri and its officials engaged in “fabricating enormous disinformation, and spreading stigmatizing and discriminating slanders” that impaired China’s economic interests and reputation.
Alongside financial compensation, China seeks public apologies in prominent American and Chinese media outlets, recovery of legal costs, and the right to claim further damages.
What People Are Saying
Hanaway said: “I find it extremely telling that the Chinese blame our great state for ‘belittling the social evaluation’ of The Wuhan Institute of Virology… We stand undeterred in our mission to collect on our $24 billion judgment that was lawfully handed down in federal court.”
U.S. Senator Eric Schmitt, who initiated Missouri’s original lawsuit, said: “I’ve been banned from Communist China, and now I am being sued and targeted by Communist China in a $50 Billion lawfare campaign, and I’ll wear it like a badge of honor… This novel lawsuit is factually baseless, legally meritless, and any fake judgment a Chinese court issues in this lawsuit we will easily beat back and keep from being enforced against the people of Missouri or me.”
Liu Pengyu, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, described the Missouri lawsuit as “a purely politically motivated maneuver [and] China firmly opposes it, will never accept it, and reserves the right to take strong countermeasures.”
What Happens Next
Missouri is in the process of seeking certification of its federal court judgment—a legal prerequisite for initiating asset seizures under U.S. law. If certification is granted, the state may move forward with efforts to identify and seize Chinese-owned assets, particularly farmland and financial interests connected to the Chinese government or its proxies.
Simultaneously, Chinese legal action in Wuhan courts is ongoing, with the plaintiffs demanding significant damages and public apologies.
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