Trey Reed Hanging: 5 Things We Know So Far
The tragic death of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a Black student, at Delta State University in Mississippi has sent shockwaves through the community and raised urgent questions. On Monday, September 15, 2025, the 21-year-old was found hanging from a tree on the Cleveland, Mississippi, campus.
The Trey Reed Hanging incident has inevitably drawn comparisons to the history of lynching in the American South. Notably, Mississippi holds the record for the highest number of recorded lynchings of African Americans between 1877 and 1950.
Police were informed on Monday morning about the discovery of a body near the pickleball courts at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, as reported by university police Chief Michael Peeler during a news conference later that day.
He said the body was identified as that of Demartravion “Trey” Reed.
5 Things We Know So Far About the Trey Reed Hanging Incident
1. A Student Was Found on Campus
Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student from Grenada, Mississippi, was found unresponsive by university staff around 7:05 a.m. on Monday. His body was discovered near the pickleball courts in the central part of the campus.
Delta State University officials canceled all classes and campus events for the day, including those planned for the university’s centennial celebration, following the discovery. The university has made counseling services available to students and staff.
2. Officials State No Initial Signs of Foul Play
During a press conference, Delta State University Police Chief Michael Peeler revealed that a preliminary investigation has found no immediate evidence of foul play. The university has reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the campus community.
The Bolivar County Coroner’s office corroborated this initial assessment. In a formal statement, the coroner confirmed that a preliminary examination revealed no lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault, as reported by Capital B News. An official autopsy is currently underway to determine the cause of death.
3. Social Media Rumors Contradicted by Coroner
Soon after the news broke, rumors spread rapidly on social media platforms. Many posts claimed that Reed had broken his arms and legs, implying that he had been attacked before his death.
However, Bolivar County Deputy Coroner Murray Roark publicly denied these claims. During an interview with the Mississippi Free Press, he stated that he did not observe any broken limbs during the initial examination of the body at the scene.
4. Family Hires Attorney, Demands Independent Probe
The family of Trey Reed has enlisted the services of renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump to help them find answers about the circumstances surrounding Reed’s untimely death. In a statement, Crump announced his intention to conduct an independent review of the events leading up to Reed’s demise.
The family is deeply saddened and demands a thorough and transparent investigation. They also request an independent autopsy to ensure that no detail is overlooked in determining the circumstances surrounding their son’s death.
5. Federal Lawmaker Calls for FBI Investigation
Citing Mississippi’s painful history of racial violence, U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson has formally requested that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigate Reed’s death. Thompson represents the district that includes the university.
In a statement covered by The Associated Press, Thompson emphasized that “The FBI has the tools and experience necessary to conduct a thorough, unbiased inquiry.” The call reflects deep-seated community concerns and a demand for the highest level of scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- Who: Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Black student.
- What: Found hanging from a tree on the Delta State University campus.
- When: Morning of Monday, September 15, 2025.
- Official Stance: Police and the coroner report no initial signs of foul play.
- Response: The family has hired an attorney and a federal lawmaker is calling for an FBI probe.
Also read, Luigi Mangione: Why Terrorism Charges Were Just Dropped.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Demartravion “Trey” Reed was a 21-year-old student from Grenada, Mississippi. He was attending Delta State University at the time of his death.
While officials have stated there are no initial signs of foul play, an official cause of death has not been released. The investigation is ongoing pending a full autopsy report.
Given the historical context of lynchings in Mississippi, the nature of the death has caused significant concern among the community and civil rights leaders. U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson called for an FBI probe to ensure a transparent and unbiased investigation.
Christine Morgan is a senior staff writer and journalist at ReadBitz.com, where she brings clarity and context to the most pressing global events. As a leading voice on the daily news desk, she is dedicated to demystifying the complex web of international affairs, politics, and economics for a diverse global readership.