Mississippi Man Found Dead in Tragic Hanging Incident

Corey Zukatis, 36, discovered near Vicksburg casino as investigation continues into second hanging death in state.

Police in Vicksburg continue investigating the death of Corey Zukatis, a 36-year-old homeless man whose body was found hanging from a tree in a wooded area near Ameristar Casino on Monday, September 15, 2025.

Death Investigation Ongoing

Warren County Coroner Doug L. Huskey confirmed Zukatis’s identity, stating the Brandon, Mississippi resident was discovered around 10:30 a.m. in the densely forested area. Captain Curtis Judge of the Vicksburg Police Department indicated the case remains classified as a death investigation, with authorities not releasing additional details about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Zukatis’s body was transported to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for autopsy examination. His family has been notified of the tragic discovery.

Part of Disturbing Pattern

The incident occurred on the same day that Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Delta State University student, was also found hanging from a tree on the university campus in Cleveland, Mississippi, approximately 130 miles away. Both deaths happened within hours of each other, prompting widespread concern and speculation across social media platforms.

Authorities in both cases have stated there is currently no evidence of foul play, though investigations remain ongoing. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the Delta State University case.

Community Response

The proximity of the two incidents has sparked intense discussion online, with many questioning the circumstances and demanding thorough investigations. Social media posts have expressed outrage and called for transparency from law enforcement officials handling both cases.

Some reports initially contained conflicting information about the victims’ identities and race, leading to corrections from news organizations. The confusion highlighted the sensitivity surrounding these tragic deaths in a state with a troubled history of racial violence.

Law enforcement agencies continue their investigations as communities across Mississippi grapple with the shocking nature of these incidents occurring within the same 24-hour period.