Delta State University Student Found Dead in Tree; Authorities Report No Suspicion of Foul Play
Cleveland, Mississippi — September 15, 2025 — A wave of grief has struck Delta State University following the death of 21-year-old student Demartravion “Trey” Reed, whose body was discovered hanging from a tree near the central campus early Monday morning. University police and local authorities say there is no evidence of foul play, but an investigation is ongoing.
What We Know
- At approximately 7:05 a.m., staff at Delta State reported finding a body near the pickleball courts in central campus, which was later identified as Trey Reed, a student from Grenada, Mississippi.
- University Police Chief Michael Peeler announced that while Reed’s death is being investigated, the initial evidence does not point to foul play.
- Reed’s death has led to the cancellation of all classes and events for the day, including the centennial celebration the university had planned.
Investigation and Reaction
- The Bolivar County coroner’s office, along with the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement agencies, are involved in the case. Autopsy results are awaited to determine cause of death.
- Despite social media speculation, University Police and the State Bureau have found no broken limbs or obvious signs of trauma according to preliminary observations.
- Officials emphasized that the campus remains safe, and there is no ongoing threat to students, faculty, or staff.
Support for the Community
- Delta State University President Daniel Ennis expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to Reed’s friends and family.
- The university has opened counseling services and is making prayer services available for those who knew Reed or are affected by the tragedy.
What’s Still Unclear
- Questions persist about circumstances leading up to the incident: how Reed came to be at that location, whether there was any prior sign of distress, and the role of campus safety protocols.
- The official cause of death has not yet been released. While early indications point toward a non-violent incident, the full medical examiner’s report is pending.
The discovery of Trey Reed’s death has shaken the Delta State University community. Though authorities say there is no evidence of foul play, many are mourning and seeking answers as the investigation continues. Relations among students, families, and authorities will be crucial in how this tragedy is processed and understood in the days ahead.
