At approximately 7:05 a.m. Monday, officers on the campus of Delta State University were notified of the body of a young, Black male found hanging from a tree on campus.
The body was identified as Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21 year-old student from Grenada. Speaking at a press conference at Delta State Monday afternoon, President Daniel J. Ennis acknowledged the emotions present on campus.
Shamira Muhammad
Law enforcement investigating circumstances behind the death of a Delta State University student found hanging
“Our community is deeply saddened by this loss and we extend our heartfelt condolences to families and friends and all those who were impacted by Trey's loss,” he said. “I've spoken to Trey’s family and expressed our heartbreak.”
Classes and several events around campus were canceled, but the university did not go into full lockdown.
Col. Michael Peeler is the Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police at Delta State University. He says the circumstances behind Reed's death are still under investigation.
“As of this time, there's no evidence of foul play,” Peeler said. “While there's no evidence of foul play, the body has been retrieved by the Bolivar County Coroner's Office.”
The Cleveland Police Department, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations and the Bolivar County Sheriff's Office are also assisting with the investigation. Responding to a reporter asking about rumors of the death circulating on social media, Peeler again said any further details are dependent on ongoing investigations.
“I just want to confirm this is a safe campus,” he said. “Delta State University is a beautiful place to be. It's just unfortunate, this loss that comes heavy to our campus.”
It remains unclear when classes will resume at the university. Counselors and support services have been made available to students.