The discovery of 21-year-old Demartravion “Trey” Reed’s body hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University early Monday morning has left the community in shock and mourning. According to officials, the body was found around 7:05 a.m. near the pickleball courts in the center of campus. Authorities confirmed Reed’s identity shortly after and notified his family.
University President Daniel J. Ennis expressed his condolences to Reed’s family and the student body, saying the entire Delta State community is “deeply saddened” by the tragic loss. Chief of Public Safety Michael Peeler stated that there is currently no evidence of foul play, though the incident remains under active investigation. The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Bolivar County Sheriff, and the Cleveland Police Department are all involved in gathering more information.
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| Trey Reed / Facebook |
In response to the tragedy, Delta State cancelled all classes and events scheduled for Monday, including centennial celebration activities. The university has also made counseling and support services available to students, faculty, and staff. The cancellation and support measures were put in place both to honor Reed’s memory and to give the campus community space to grieve.
The incident has sparked widespread attention online, where a video allegedly showing the site where Reed was found has been circulating. Family members and community leaders have urged the public not to share the footage out of respect for Reed and his loved ones, warning against the spread of misinformation.
Despite official statements, several questions remain unanswered. Authorities have not yet released details about the exact circumstances that led to Reed’s death. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause and manner of death, which may provide further clarity. In the meantime, the university faces the challenge of maintaining campus safety and addressing the deep concerns of its students and staff.
This is a developing story, and updates are expected as investigators continue their work and Reed’s family shares more information in the coming days.
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