Date: September 18, 2025
Author: Pan African News Blog

The death of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Black student found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University in Mississippi, has ignited outrage, sorrow, and demands for justice across the nation. Discovered on the morning of September 15, 2025, Reed’s body was found near the university’s pickleball courts, a scene that evoked painful historical memories of lynching and racial terror in the American South . Despite official claims of no foul play, Reed’s family, civil rights leaders, and the broader Pan African community are calling for a transparent and independent investigation to uncover the truth behind this tragic event.

🔍 The Incident and Initial Response

At approximately 7:05 a.m. on September 15, a staff member discovered Reed’s body hanging from a tree on Delta State University’s campus in Cleveland, Mississippi. Campus police chief Michael Peeler quickly addressed the media, stating that there was no evidence of foul play or an ongoing threat to the community . Classes were canceled, and centennial celebrations were suspended as the university grappled with the shock of Reed’s death .

The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office supported Peeler’s initial assessment, reporting that a preliminary examination revealed no signs of lacerations, contusions, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault . Deputy Coroner Murray Roark described the death as “self-done,” though he declined to elaborate due to the ongoing investigation .

⚖️ Family and Community Outcry

Reed’s family, however, remains deeply skeptical of these claims. At a press conference in Grenada, Mississippi, family attorney Vanessa J. Jones revealed that the family learned of Reed’s death through media reports rather than official channels . Initially, the family was misinformed by the Grenada County Sheriff’s Department that Reed had been found dead in his dorm room, only to later discover he had died hanging from a tree in the center of campus . This communication failure has fueled mistrust and heightened the family’s demand for clarity.

Reed’s uncle, Pastor Jerry Reed, remembered him as a “happy young man” with ambitious life plans. “He wanted to go to college. He wanted to be a truck driver… He was sweet, well-mannered, and would give you the world if he could,” Pastor Reed shared . The family has called for an independent autopsy and a thorough review of campus surveillance footage to piece together Reed’s final moments .

🗣 Civil Rights Leaders and Political Response

Prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump has joined the family’s fight for answers. In a statement, Crump emphasized, “We cannot accept vague conclusions when so many questions remain” . He pledged to lead a team of civil rights organizations in an independent investigation to ensure transparency and accountability .

The NAACP also expressed skepticism, highlighting the historical context of racial violence: “You’d have to excuse our skepticism amidst growing racially motivated violence targeted at our communities across this nation… Our people have not historically hung ourselves from trees” . U.S. Representative Bennie Thompson (D-MS) echoed these concerns, calling for the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI to investigate Reed’s death. He urged authorities not to ignore Mississippi’s “painful history of lynching and racial violence against African Americans” .

🌐 Social Media and Historical Echoes

Social media has played a significant role in amplifying Reed’s story and challenging the official narrative. Rumors spread rapidly, including false claims that Reed’s body showed signs of a beating or broken limbs . Many users drew explicit connections to Mississippi’s history of lynching, particularly the 1955 murder of Emmett Till, which occurred just 30 miles from Delta State University .

The discovery of a second hanging victim—a homeless white man in Vicksburg, Mississippi, just hours after Reed’s death—further fueled speculation online. However, authorities confirmed the cases were unrelated . Despite this, the timing reinforced concerns about racial violence and the need for a rigorous federal investigation.

🏫 University Accountability and Next Steps

Delta State University President Dan Ennis expressed condolences to Reed’s family and emphasized the university’s cooperation with law enforcement . However, the family claims they have not received direct communication from the university, despite Ennis’s assertions . The university has since held a prayer vigil and offered counseling services to students, but the demand for answers remains unmet .

The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, along with local agencies, continues to investigate Reed’s death. The full autopsy results from the Mississippi State Crime Lab are expected within 24–48 hours, which may provide more clarity . Nonetheless, the family’s call for an independent autopsy and Crump’s involvement ensure that this case will remain under national scrutiny.

✊ A Call for Justice and Reflection

Trey Reed’s death is a stark reminder of the enduring legacy of racial violence in the United States. For the Pan African community, it underscores the urgent need for systemic change, accountability, and a unwavering commitment to truth. As the investigation continues, we must honor Trey’s memory by demanding justice and ensuring that his story is not forgotten or dismissed.

Resources for Support:
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741, or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources .