Body of Black Student Found Hanging from Tree on College Campus. Police Don’t Suspect Foul Play Despite Online Claims

The body of a Black student was tragically discovered hanging from a tree on the campus of a Mississippi college. Despite online speculation, authorities have disclosed that no foul play is suspected in this devastating incident. The victim has been identified as Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a native of Grenada, Mississippi.

The unsettling discovery was made at Delta State University (DSU) on September 15th. University officials reported that Demartravion Reed was found near the central campus pickleball courts early in the morning. While there were unconfirmed rumours circulating online suggesting that Reed had sustained injuries that would have hindered him from hanging himself, officials have refuted these claims.

Mike Peeler, the Director of Public Safety at Delta State University, clarified that there is no evidence of foul play related to Reed’s death. He also assured the public that there is no immediate threat to campus safety. The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office stated that there were no signs of physical assault on Reed before his passing.

Despite the lack of apparent external injuries, the circumstances surrounding Reed’s death remain under investigation. Bolivar County Deputy Coroner, Murray Roark, mentioned that he did not observe any broken limbs on Reed. He tentatively suggested that the incident may have been self-inflicted, pending further investigation.

In response to this tragic event, counselling and support services have been made available to students and faculty at Delta State University. The community is reeling from the loss, with University President Dr. Dan Ennis expressing heartfelt condolences to Reed’s family and friends.

The investigation into Demartravion Reed’s passing is ongoing, with multiple law enforcement agencies involved. Classes and centennial events at DSU were cancelled on the day of the discovery. The campus is currently being assisted by the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office, the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and the Cleveland Police Department.

As the university community grapples with this tragedy, efforts are being made to understand the circumstances surrounding Reed’s death. The support and resources provided to those affected underscore the importance of coming together during times of grief and uncertainty.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the need for compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity. The impact of Demartravion Reed’s passing reverberates through the college campus and beyond, prompting reflections on mental health support and crisis intervention resources within educational institutions. The search for answers continues as the community mourns the loss of a promising young life.