Eyes on Delta State University After Student Found Dead; Second Hanging Reported in Mississippi
CLEVELAND, Miss. — Delta State University and the surrounding community are reeling after the tragic discovery of a student’s body on campus early Monday, September 15. The case, which has been officially ruled a suicide, has drawn widespread attention and fueled conversation across the state, particularly as news surfaced of another Mississippi man found hanged on the same day.
Discovery on Delta State’s Campus
Authorities have identified the victim as Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student from Grenada, Mississippi. His body was discovered hanging from a tree near the pickleball courts and the Court of Governors dormitories on Delta State’s Cleveland campus.
University Police Chief Michael L. Peeler said the department was first notified at 7:05 a.m., and shortly after, the Cleveland Police Department contacted the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office at 7:32 a.m. Coroner Randolph Seals Jr. confirmed his office arrived on the scene around 8:08 a.m.
No Evidence of Foul Play
During a press conference, Chief Peeler said that preliminary findings indicate Reed’s death was a suicide.
“But while there is no evidence of foul play, the body has been retrieved by the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office,” Peeler stated. “I have requested the assistance of the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cleveland Police Department to assist us in this ongoing investigation.”
In response to social media speculation that Reed had suffered broken bones or injuries inconsistent with self-harm, the coroner’s office released a clarifying statement:
“Based on the preliminary examination, we can confirm that the deceased did not suffer any lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the individual was physically attacked before his death.”
Community Grief and Shock
Reed’s death has left the Delta State University community of approximately 2,700 students in mourning. He was remembered by peers and friends as an ambitious, outgoing young man who brought energy and kindness to those around him. The university has made grief counseling available for students, faculty, and staff grappling with the devastating news.
The case has also underscored the importance of addressing mental health challenges among college students, particularly young men of color, who often face unique pressures and stigmas when it comes to seeking help.
A Second Tragedy in Mississippi
While officials in Cleveland have ruled Reed’s case a suicide, attention has also turned to Vicksburg, where another Mississippi man was found hanged on the same day. Law enforcement there is still actively investigating, and unlike Reed’s case, no official ruling has yet been made.
The proximity of the two deaths — both in Mississippi, both hangings — has sparked broader public concern and discussions online. However, police have not released any evidence linking the two incidents.
Moving Forward
The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office has taken custody of Reed’s body, and an official autopsy will be conducted to finalize the cause and manner of death. Delta State officials continue to cooperate fully with investigators while focusing on providing support to their grieving campus.
As Chief Peeler noted, “This is a heartbreaking time for the Delta State community. We ask for compassion, patience, and privacy for the family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
For those struggling in the wake of this tragedy, university officials are urging students and residents to reach out for support rather than suffer in silence.
