Student Found Hanging on Delta State Campus; Officials Rule Out Foul Play

Lead Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, was found hanging from a tree near the campus pickleball courts Monday morning, prompting an ongoing investigation into his death.

Nut Graf University and county authorities have ruled Reed’s death a likely suicide after a preliminary autopsy revealed no signs of assault, despite circulating social media allegations of broken limbs and racial violence.

Details Subheading: Discovery and Response

  • At approximately 7:05 a.m. on Monday, campus police received a report of a body hanging from a tree at the central campus pickleball courts.
  • Officers identified the individual as Demartravion “Trey” Reed of Grenada, Mississippi, and secured the scene.
  • University President Dr. Dan Ennis canceled Monday’s centennial events and classes, offering counseling services to students and staff.

Subheading: Investigation Findings

  • Bolivar County Coroner’s Office conducted a preliminary examination and reported no lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, or broken bones consistent with an assault.
  • University Chief of Police Michael Peeler confirmed there was no evidence of foul play and said the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has joined the inquiry.
  • Officials expect a full autopsy report to be released later this week as the probe continues.

Subheading: Community Reaction

  • Reed’s family described him as a “quiet light” in a statement requesting privacy and prayers.
  • Social media erupted with conspiracy theories alleging a hate-motivated attack, leading campus leaders to emphasize that there is no known threat to student safety.
  • Civil-rights advocates have called for transparency, urging authorities to release all findings promptly.

Support and Next Steps Delta State University has mobilized additional counseling resources and set up a hotline for students seeking assistance. Law enforcement officials reiterate that anyone with information about Reed’s final hours should contact the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office.