CLEVELAND, Miss. — The death of 21-year-old college student Demartravion “Trey” Reed, whose body was discovered hanging from a tree on Delta State University’s campus earlier this week, has officially been ruled a suicide. The finding comes amid growing calls for transparency and justice from Reed’s family, civil rights advocates, and community leaders.
What Happened
Reed was found dead early Monday morning near the pickleball courts at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi. Police initially stated there was no evidence of foul play, and an autopsy conducted by the Mississippi State Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as hanging, ruling the manner of death a suicide. Toxicology reports remain pending and could take several weeks.
Who Was Demartravion “Trey” Reed
Reed, 21, was a Black college student enrolled at Delta State University, which has an enrollment of more than 2,600 students — over 40% of whom are Black. Family and friends describe him as a bright young man with dreams for the future, now tragically cut short.
Calls for Investigation and Historical Context
The case quickly drew attention from civil rights advocates, given Mississippi’s history of lynching and racially motivated violence. The family retained renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who said Tuesday the family “cannot accept vague conclusions” regarding Reed’s death.
Congressman Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, also called for a federal review of the case. Both the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are now reviewing investigative materials, though no federal violations have been identified at this stage.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Reed’s death has sparked widespread grief and outrage, with community members, students, and activists demanding a transparent investigation. Social media users expressed skepticism about the initial findings, sharing hashtags and tributes to keep Reed’s story in the public eye. Vigils and memorials are being planned by classmates and supporters who want to honor his life.
Official Statements and What Happens Next
The Cleveland Police Department confirmed Thursday that the autopsy results supported initial findings of suicide but said all investigative files had been turned over to federal officials for review. The FBI stated it stands ready to pursue the case further “if information comes to light of a potential federal violation.”
Delta State University expressed condolences to Reed’s family and confirmed that multiple law enforcement agencies have assisted in the investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing as the community waits for toxicology results and any potential federal findings.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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