Black student found hanging from tree at Delta State University raises concerns

In Mississippi, authorities are investigating the hanging death of 21-year-old Demartravion 'Trey' Reed, a college student at Delta State University. His lifeless body was discovered early in the morning near pickleball courts on campus. Initial investigations by local police, along with assistance from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, suggested there was no evidence of foul play. Despite these findings, the circumstances surrounding Reed's death have evoked deep concerns within the community, especially given Mississippi's fraught history with racial violence. Online rumors began circulating indicating Reed might have sustained injuries inconsistent with committing suicide, which prompted further scrutiny into the nature of his death. The Bolivar County Coroner's Office confirmed that their initial autopsy revealed no major trauma or assault-related injuries, a statement that, however, did not quell public speculation. The university and local residents expressed profound concern due to the emotional implications of Reed's tragic discovery, recalling the historical weight of racial violence in the region. With the racial dynamics of the university population—42% being Black—and the campus's proximity to historical sites of racial violence, many students and community members remarked on feeling uneasy or unsafe. U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson called for the FBI to get involved, emphasizing that every avenue must be explored in light of the troubling history of lynching in Mississippi. Delta State's administration expressed support for Reed's family, and classes were suspended as the university aimed to handle the situation delicately by engaging with law enforcement and the community. As the investigation proceeds, civil rights attorney Ben Crump has publicly backed Reed's family, calling for an independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the young man's death. Crump's advocacy underscores the widespread demand for transparency and accountability. The university's leadership aims to convey a commitment to safety and wellbeing for all students but faces heightened scrutiny as they navigate these challenging circumstances. With full autopsy results pending and various investigations ongoing, the community remains on edge as they seek clarity and justice surrounding this heart-wrenching incident.