Mississippi authorities investigate deaths of two Ole Miss students amid drug findings
Two University of Mississippi students were found dead in separate locations; investigators have recovered packaged kratom at both scenes and are conducting separate inquiries while toxicology results are pending.
Lafayette County investigators confirmed that two male University of Mississippi students, ages 18 and 20, were found dead on Monday, one in a dormitory and the other in an off-campus residence. Packages of the over-the-counter substance kratom were recovered at both locations, though officials have not yet linked the drug to the fatalities. Toxicology reports are still pending and could take several weeks.
The county coroner said the deaths may not be connected, and university officials urged the public not to speculate while the investigations continue. Dr. Shawnboda Mead, the university’s vice chancellor for student affairs, said the school is "heartbroken" and is working with local, state and federal law-enforcement agencies.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves issued a statement expressing sympathy for the families and warning that illegal drugs pose a serious problem on college campuses. Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated that the Justice Department plans further action against synthetic kratom products after recent emergency scheduling of certain opioid compounds.
Campus Greek-life groups have warned members about a synthetic opioid known as cychlorphine, which authorities say may require multiple doses of the antidote naloxone. Several fraternities and sororities have cancelled events as a precaution.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding both deaths, and they have asked students to avoid using kratom or any other unregulated substances until the inquiries are concluded.