Trey Reed Found Dead on Delta State University Campus

Delta State University cancels centennial events after student’s body is discovered hanging from a tree

Lead Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student from Grenada, Mississippi, was found hanging from a tree near the DSU pickleball courts on Monday at around 7:05 a.m., prompting the immediate cancellation of classes and centennial celebrations.

Nut Graf Campus police and the Bolivar County coroner say there is no evidence of foul play, and officials initially suspect suicide. The tragedy has devastated the university community and ignited online debate over Reed’s cause of death and campus safety.

Campus Discovery and Initial Investigation University Police Chief Michael L. Peeler reported officers were alerted to what appeared to be a body on central campus. Within minutes, they identified Reed, a sophomore at Delta State. No signs of forced entry, defensive wounds, or broken limbs were observed during the preliminary examination, and the Bolivar County coroner’s office awaits autopsy results to confirm the cause of death.

Centennial Celebrations Suspended Delta State was set to mark its 100th anniversary on Monday. In response to Reed’s death, President Daniel J. Ennis announced the cancellation of all centennial festivities and classes for the day. “Our community is deeply saddened by this loss,” he said, offering condolences to Reed’s family and friends.

Support Services and Campus Safety Counselors from the O.W. Reily Counseling Center and local mental-health professionals are available to students, faculty and staff. Chief Peeler stressed that DSU remains secure, affirming, “This is a safe campus. It’s unfortunate this loss that comes heavy to our campus.”

Public Reaction and Ongoing Speculation A video of Reed’s body circulated on social media, sparking allegations of racial violence by a TikTok user claiming to be his cousin. The university and Reed’s family have pleaded for privacy and urged the removal of the graphic footage. Investigators from the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement continue to assist in the inquiry.

Next Steps in Investigation The Bolivar County coroner’s autopsy and forensic analysis will determine Reed’s official cause of death. University leaders will decide this week whether classes resume on Tuesday and plan a memorial service pending family wishes.