FIT Student Death: Fashion Institute of Technology Student Dies After Alleged Fentanyl Drugging and Sexual Assault in NYC Dorm

A student at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City has died following an alleged fentanyl poisoning and sexual assault in a Manhattan college residence hall, according to federal prosecutors. The case has raised serious concerns about student safety, drug-related crimes and sexual violence on college campuses.

According to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, two female students were allegedly drugged in a college residence hall in March 2026. One student survived, while the other died several days later from complications related to acute fentanyl intoxication. Prosecutors have not publicly identified the deceased student.

Court documents allege that on March 18, Moises Freire, 19, supplied one of the women with a substance he described as pure cocaine from Mexico and assured her that it did not contain fentanyl. Prosecutors allege that Freire knew the substance was fentanyl and had obtained it from Brian Peralta Cabrera, 18.

According to the indictment, both women lost consciousness after consuming the substance. Prosecutors further allege that Freire sexually assaulted one of the unconscious women while she was experiencing a fentanyl overdose, then took nude photographs of her and sent them to others.

The indictment alleges that Freire waited approximately 45 minutes before contacting campus security, claiming the women had become unconscious after drinking too much alcohol. Campus security personnel reportedly found the women and arranged emergency medical assistance. Both were transported to a nearby hospital, but only one regained consciousness.

Freire faces charges including distribution of a controlled substance with intent to commit rape, distribution of narcotics resulting in death and conspiracy. Cabrera has been charged with conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death and serious bodily injury.

Both defendants have pleaded not guilty. The charges remain allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

The victim’s death represents a devastating loss, while the surviving student’s identity and current condition have not been disclosed in the information provided. FIT had not responded to NBC News’ request for comment at the time of the report.

Disclaimer: This article summarizes allegations described by federal prosecutors and court documents. The deceased student has not been publicly identified in the supplied report. The allegations against both defendants have not been proven in court.