Deceased Black Student Found Hung At Delta State University

Delta State University is mourning the loss of a student found dead while hanging from a tree on campus Monday morning in what officials say does not appear to involve foul play.

The student was identified as 21-year-old Demartravion Reed, also known as Trey, of Grenada, Mississippi. University Police Chief Mike Peeler said officers discovered Reed’s body shortly after 7 a.m. on September 15. He was found hanging from a tree in the central part of campus near the pickleball courts.

Reed’s body was turned over to the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, which will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and other local agencies are working alongside campus police in the investigation.

Although details remain limited, Peeler stressed that there is no ongoing danger to the campus community. The university closed briefly after the discovery but did not enter lockdown. “I just want to confirm, this is a safe campus,” Peeler said. “Delta State University is a beautiful place to be. It’s just unfortunate this loss that comes heavily to our campus.”

Student Found Dead At Delta State University

University President Daniel Ennis addressed reporters later Monday, offering condolences to Reed’s family and describing the incident as a devastating moment for the Delta State community. He said the timing for resuming classes is still under review but pledged that operations would restart “as soon as possible.”

Reed’s death has left many on campus reeling. Students and faculty remembered him as a young man with promise, and tributes began circulating online throughout the day. Counselors were made available for students, faculty, and staff grappling with grief.

The tragedy has also renewed conversations about the importance of mental health resources on college campuses. Particularly at smaller institutions where access to support can be limited.

As investigators await autopsy results, Delta State faces the challenge of honoring Reed’s memory while moving forward. For many on campus, the focus now is ensuring that every student feels supported and valued during a time of collective mourning.