Ole Miss investigates two student deaths; kratom found at both scenes
University of Mississippi officials are probing two separate deaths of male students, ages 18 and 20, after packaged kratom was recovered at each location, while a student reports being drugged at a local bar.
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics announced that two college-aged men, one 18 and the other 20, were found dead at separate locations in Oxford, Mississippi. The younger victim was discovered in a dormitory room and the older in an off-campus house. Both investigations are being treated as distinct cases, and authorities have not confirmed that any substance, including kratom, contributed to the fatalities. Toxicology results are pending and could take several weeks.
Police recovered packaged kratom purchased from a retail outlet at each scene, but a county statement said, "We do not have confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death."
Ole Miss student Mary Harvey told reporters she was drugged at a bar while watching a football game and experienced memory loss that night. She said she was taken to her dorm by Uber, found unconscious in a hallway, and now feels unsafe in her residence hall.
University security staff reported that at least three Greek-life events have been canceled and several bars have increased screening of items brought in by patrons. A university spokesperson emphasized that rumors about additional missing students are unfounded and asked the public to refrain from speculation while investigations continue.
Student newspaper editor Raegan Settle called for more transparent communication from university officials and urged peers to carry naloxone as a precautionary measure.
Local, state and federal agencies are cooperating to gather facts and provide answers, while families are asked to be afforded privacy during the ongoing inquiries.