Family Seeks Independent Autopsy After Student's Death Ruled Suicide

The family of Demartravion "Trey" Reed, a 21-year-old student found hanging from a tree at Delta State University, is seeking an independent autopsy after the Mississippi State Medical Examiner's Office ruled his death a suicide. Reed's body was discovered near the campus pickleball courts on Monday morning.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, representing Reed's family, announced that Colin Kaepernick's "Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative" will cover the cost of the independent autopsy. Crump emphasized the community's historical context, stating, "Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths."

U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson has called for a federal investigation into Reed's death, highlighting Mississippi's history of racial violence. "We must leave no stone unturned in the search for answers," Thompson said.

Delta State University President Dan Ennis expressed condolences and stated that the university is cooperating with investigators and meeting with Reed's family. "We give them our love and support, and we know that we can never fully heal this wound," Ennis said.

The Cleveland Police Department noted that toxicology results are pending and could take weeks. The investigation is ongoing, with evidence being shared with the FBI and federal prosecutors.