Cleveland, Mississippi – The tragic death of 21-year-old college student Demartravion “Trey” Reed, whose body was discovered hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University earlier this week, has been officially ruled a suicide. The ruling comes amid growing calls for transparency and justice from Reed’s family, civil rights advocates, and community leaders.
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What Happened to Demartravion Reed?
Reed was found dead on Monday morning near the pickleball courts at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi. Police initially reported no signs of foul play, and an autopsy conducted by the Mississippi State Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as suicide. However, toxicology reports are still pending and could take several weeks to be completed.
Who Was Demartravion “Trey” Reed?
Reed was a 21-year-old Black college student at Delta State University, where enrollment includes more than 40% Black students among its 2,600 students. Family and friends described him as a bright, ambitious young man with big dreams for the future, now tragically cut short.
Calls for Investigation and Historical Context
Reed’s death quickly drew attention from civil rights advocates, given Mississippi’s painful history of lynching and racially motivated violence. His family has retained renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who said the family cannot accept “vague conclusions” regarding Reed’s death.
Congressman Bennie Thompson, a Mississippi Democrat, has also requested a federal review of the case. Both the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are now reviewing the 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 many community members, students, and activists demanding a transparent and thorough investigation. On social media, users have expressed skepticism about the initial findings and continue to share hashtags, tributes, and stories to keep Reed’s case in the public eye. Vigils and memorials are also being planned by classmates and supporters who want to honor his life.
What Happens Next?
On Thursday, the Cleveland Police Department announced that the autopsy results supported the initial suicide ruling, but confirmed that all investigative files had been handed over to federal officials for review. The FBI stated it is prepared to pursue the case further if new information suggests potential federal violations.
Delta State University has expressed condolences to Reed’s family and confirmed that multiple law enforcement agencies are assisting in the ongoing investigation. The community now awaits toxicology results and any possible federal findings.
Conclusion
The death of Demartravion “Trey” Reed has left a cloud of grief and unanswered questions over Cleveland, Mississippi. While the official ruling points to suicide, his family and supporters continue to push for accountability and transparency in the investigation. Reed’s memory lives on through the love of his family, friends, and classmates, as the community demands clarity about the circumstances surrounding his untimely passing.