A Black Student at Delta State University was Discovered Hanging From A Tree!

By Sean Henderson

On the morning of September 11, 2025, the quiet campus of Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, was shaken by tragedy. At approximately 7:05 a.m., the body of 21-year-old student Demartravion “Trey” Reed was discovered near the campus pickleball courts. The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office was called to the scene, and Reed’s body was taken for examination.

Authorities confirmed that Reed’s body was found hanging from a tree. Campus police, alongside the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, responded immediately. The location—near the pickleball courts in the central area of the university—made the incident highly visible and deeply unsettling for students, staff, and community members.

Official Statements

As of this writing, no "official" cause of death has been released. Law enforcement has acknowledged public concern but stated that there is currently no evidence pointing to foul play. Investigators have not closed the door on any possibilities and have emphasized that a full autopsy will provide clearer answers.

The university issued a public statement offering condolences to Reed’s family, noting that counseling and support services are available to students, faculty, and staff. Delta State also announced the suspension of certain centennial celebration events out of respect for Reed’s memory.

Autopsy and Investigation

The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office has taken custody of Reed’s body to perform an autopsy. Findings from that examination—including toxicology, cause of death, and any other contributing factors—have not yet been released. Until those results are public, officials stress that the exact circumstances of Reed’s death remain undetermined, regardless of the fact, that the likelihood of Reed hanging himself is nearly impossible to believe.

Community Response

News of Reed’s death has rippled beyond the Delta State campus. While some have taken to social media to express shock and grief, others have raised questions about campus safety and transparency. Reed’s family has also requested that people not circulate graphic video footage connected to the incident, citing both respect for the deceased and the harm such images cause.

Locally, the community has come together in mourning. University officials have highlighted Reed’s presence as part of the Delta State student body and acknowledged the deep pain felt across campus.

The Facts as They Stand

• Identity: Demartravion “Trey” Reed, 21 years old, Delta State University student.

• Time and Place: Body discovered at approximately 7:05 a.m. on September 11, 2025, near pickleball courts on campus.

• Condition: Found hanging from a tree.

• Investigation: Managed by Delta State University police and Bolivar County Coroner’s Office.

• Cause of Death: Not yet determined; autopsy results pending.

• Institutional Response: University canceled certain events, provided counseling, and issued public condolences.

• Family Request: Asked the public not to share graphic video related to the incident.

Moving Forward

At present, the most important fact is that a young man’s life has been cut short. The investigation is active, and the autopsy report is expected to provide the most definitive answers. Until then, the community is left with grief, questions, and the hope for transparency in the days ahead.