Vicksburg Man Found Hanging Near Casino, Death Investigation Launched

Lead: Corey Zukatis, a 36-year-old unhoused man from Brandon, Mississippi, was found hanging from a tree near the Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg on Monday, September 15, prompting a death investigation by local authorities.

Nut Graf: Zukatis’s death, classified by Warren County officials as a “death investigation,” raises urgent questions about the circumstances surrounding the discovery and follows a similar incident earlier the same day at Delta State University, intensifying public concern across the state.

Discovery and Response

  • At approximately 10:30 AM on September 15, Vicksburg Police responded to a wooded area off Washington Street near the Ameristar Casino after a passerby reported a body hanging from a tree.
  • Warren County Coroner Doug L. Huskey confirmed the identity of the deceased as Corey Zukatis, noting no immediate signs of foul play.
  • The scene was secured, and evidence collection began under the supervision of the coroner’s office and assisting agencies.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including accident, suicide, or homicide. Key steps in the ongoing inquiry include:

  • A forensic autopsy by the Warren County Coroner’s Office.
  • Collaboration with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation to review physical evidence.
  • Interviews with witnesses and community members to reconstruct Zukatis’s last movements.

Parallel Incident Heightens Scrutiny

Earlier on Monday at around 7:05 AM, Delta State University campus police discovered 21-year-old student Demartravion “Trey” Reed hanging from a tree near the pickleball courts. That case has likewise been classified as a death investigation, with no signs of assault reported.

  • The proximity of the two incidents-both in Mississippi on the same day-has sparked public debate and calls for transparency.
  • Community leaders and civil rights groups are urging authorities to expedite findings and share updates.

Community Reaction and Next Steps

Local residents and advocacy groups have expressed shock and demanded answers:

  • “We need clarity on whether these are isolated tragedies or something more sinister,” said a Vicksburg community organizer.
  • Volunteers have organized vigils at both sites and are offering support to family members.

Investigators encourage anyone with relevant information to contact the Vicksburg Police Department or the Warren County Coroner’s Office as the investigation continues.