CLEVELAND, Miss. – Authorities in Mississippi have ruled that the death of De’Martravion “Trey” Reed, a Black student at Delta State University whose body was discovered hanging from a tree, was a suicide, according to autopsy results released Thursday.
Reed, a 21-year-old first-year student from Grenada, Mississippi, was found around 7:30 a.m. on September 15 near the university’s pickleball courts. The Bolivar County coroner’s office arrived roughly 30 minutes later and confirmed his death at the scene.
In their preliminary statement earlier this week, the coroner’s office said that a physical examination revealed no evidence of trauma typically associated with an assault. Officials noted Reed showed no lacerations, contusions, broken bones, or other injuries that would indicate he had been attacked before his death.
The full autopsy has now determined Reed’s death to be suicide, though officials stressed that toxicology results are still pending. Those findings may take between two and four weeks. Until then, the investigation remains open.
The Cleveland Police Department confirmed that all case files and investigative materials have been forwarded to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for independent review. Police Chief Travis Tribble expressed sympathy for Reed’s loved ones, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers remain with Reed’s family and friends during this very difficult time. We want to encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for help.”
Despite official statements ruling out foul play so far, Reed’s death has prompted calls for further review. U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI to conduct a full investigation. Reed’s family, meanwhile, has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump to represent them. The family has also requested an independent autopsy and asked for all video evidence tied to the case to be shared with them.
During a news briefing on Wednesday, officials acknowledged that investigators are reviewing available video footage related to Reed’s death. They added that preliminary findings still show no indication of foul play. Crump, however, emphasized the importance of transparency, saying Reed’s relatives deserve access to the recordings.
University officials have also spoken publicly, stating that there is currently no evidence of a broader threat to campus safety. In a message to students and staff, Delta State reiterated its commitment to supporting the community through counseling and mental health resources. The O.W. Reily Counseling Center remains open for students, while faculty and staff have been directed to resources offered through the school’s Human Resources Department.
Reed’s death has shaken the Delta State community and sparked conversations across the state about mental health, race, and the need for thorough investigations in cases involving young people of color. While authorities continue their work, the combination of official findings, family concerns, and calls for federal oversight ensure the case remains under close public scrutiny.
As the investigation continues, both state and federal authorities are expected to provide additional updates once toxicology results and independent reviews are completed.
