Student found hanging on Mississippi college campus

A tragic incident unfolded at Delta State University (DSU) in Cleveland, Mississippi, when a 21-year-old Black student, Demartravion “Trey” Reed, was found hanging from a tree on campus early Monday morning. The discovery, made by a faculty member near the university’s pickleball courts around 7 AM, prompted the immediate closure of classes and campus activities. Reed, a native of Grenada, Mississippi, was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving the campus community in shock and distress. Authorities, including Delta State Police Chief Michael Peeler, have stated that there is currently no evidence of foul play, but investigations are ongoing. The university’s president, Daniel Ennis, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, offering condolences to Reed’s family and arranging counseling services for affected students and staff. Amidst the tragedy, Reed’s family has called for transparency, urging the public to seek the truth and avoid letting the matter be overlooked. They have engaged attorney Vanessa J. Jones to independently investigate the circumstances surrounding Reed’s death. The case has drawn national attention, with the Jackson FBI indicating readiness to intervene if federal misconduct is identified. Meanwhile, the Bolivar County Coroner has ruled the death a suicide, but skepticism persists within the Black community, with organizations like the NAACP highlighting historical context and demanding thorough scrutiny. The incident has reignited conversations about racial justice and safety on college campuses.