Tragedy at Delta State University: Student Found Dead in Suspected Suicide

On the morning of September 15, 2025, Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, was struck by a devastating tragedy that halted its centennial celebrations and left the campus community in mourning. At approximately 7:05 a.m., university staff discovered the body of 21-year-old student Demartravion "Trey" Reed hanging from a tree near the central campus pickleball courts. The discovery sent shockwaves through the university, prompting the immediate cancellation of classes and scheduled events, including festivities marking the institution’s 100th anniversary. This article explores the details of this heartbreaking incident, the official response, and the ongoing conversations surrounding it, while addressing the concerns and grief of the Delta State community.

The Incident: What Happened?

According to Delta State University Police Chief Michael Peeler, university police were notified at 7:05 a.m. of a Black male found hanging from a tree near the pickleball courts and the Court of Governors dormitories. The individual was later identified as Demartravion "Trey" Reed, a student from Grenada, Mississippi. Authorities quickly secured the scene, and the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office took custody of Reed’s body for further examination. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and Cleveland Police Department were called to assist, though the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Department was later confirmed not to be involved.

Chief Peeler, in a press conference held that afternoon, stated, “At this time, there is no evidence of foul play,” emphasizing that the campus remained safe with no perceived threat to students or staff. Delta State University President Dr. Daniel Ennis echoed this sentiment, saying, “There is no evidence of a threat to campus, and there is no evidence the campus is unsafe at this point.” Despite these assurances, the incident left students and faculty grappling with grief and uncertainty.

Official Response and Investigation

The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, led by Coroner Randolph Seals Jr., conducted a preliminary examination of Reed’s body. In a statement released later that day, Seals confirmed that Reed “did not suffer any lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault.” This directly countered social media rumors, including claims from a TikTok user identifying as Reed’s cousin, who alleged that Reed’s body showed signs of being “beaten and bruised” with broken arms and legs. Deputy Coroner Murray Roark, who assisted in the examination, further clarified, “I saw no broken limbs,” and noted that the case was still under investigation but appeared to be “self-done.”

The coroner’s office announced that Reed’s body would be transported to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for a full autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. While authorities have classified the incident as a suspected suicide, they have withheld further details pending the autopsy results. The investigation remains ongoing, with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation assisting to ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances.

Community Impact and University Response

The discovery of Reed’s body prompted Delta State University to cancel all classes and centennial events on September 15. The campus, home to approximately 2,700 students, was not placed under lockdown, as officials maintained there was no immediate threat. However, the tragedy deeply affected the university community, with students expressing fear and concern. Stacie Hoskins, a Black student at DSU, told local media, “Hearing that happened to another Black student, it really makes me feel unsafe.” Another student, Eriana Murphy, added, “It would be nice to know what happened,” reflecting the uncertainty that lingered on campus.

President Ennis addressed the community, expressing heartbreak and extending condolences to Reed’s family and friends. “I’ve spoken to Trey’s family and expressed our heartbreak,” he said during the press conference. The university also made counselors and support services available to students, faculty, and staff to help process the loss. Plans for prayer services were discussed with student leaders, and additional security measures were implemented as classes resumed.

Reed’s family described him as a “quiet light,” noting that he was “sweet, well-mannered, and would give you the world if he could.” They requested prayers as they navigated this difficult time, and their statement underscored the personal toll of the tragedy.

Social Media Allegations and Racial Concerns

The incident sparked significant discussion on social media, with some posts raising allegations of racial violence. A TikTok user claiming to be Reed’s cousin alleged that the death was not a suicide but a result of racist violence, citing a supposed history of racial bias at Delta State University. The user claimed Reed had experienced harassment five years prior, including an incident where staff allegedly attempted to “lock him up for no reason,” resulting in a nine-month probation. These claims suggested that Reed’s body showed signs of physical trauma, contradicting the coroner’s findings.

Delta State University, founded in 1924 as a predominantly white institution, has faced scrutiny in the past regarding racial issues. The TikTok user referenced a 1980 sit-in as evidence of the university’s history of racial tension. However, official statements from the coroner and university police have consistently refuted claims of foul play or assault, emphasizing the lack of physical evidence supporting such allegations. These conflicting narratives have fueled online debate, with some calling for a deeper investigation into the circumstances of Reed’s death.

Addressing Mental Health and Campus Safety

The tragedy has brought renewed attention to mental health resources and campus safety at Delta State University. The university’s swift response in providing counseling services highlights the importance of supporting students during times of crisis. The incident also raises broader questions about how universities can address mental health challenges and ensure a safe environment for all students, particularly in the wake of such a public and distressing event.

The cancellation of centennial events, while necessary, underscored the profound impact of Reed’s death on the university’s milestone celebration. As the investigation continues, Delta State has committed to transparency, with Chief Peeler stating that updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Moving Forward

The death of Demartravion "Trey" Reed has left an indelible mark on Delta State University and the broader Cleveland, Mississippi, community. As the university resumes normal operations, the focus remains on supporting those affected and seeking answers through the ongoing investigation. The loss of a young life under such tragic circumstances serves as a somber reminder of the importance of mental health awareness, community solidarity, and thorough investigations to address public concerns.

For now, the Delta State community mourns the loss of a student described as a “quiet light” while grappling with unanswered questions. The university’s leadership, alongside local authorities, continues to work toward clarity and closure for Reed’s family, friends, and the campus community. As the investigation progresses, the hope is that the full truth will emerge, providing solace to those affected by this heartbreaking event.