Two Ole Miss Students Found Dead; Kratom Recovered in Both Cases

Two University of Mississippi students were found dead Monday in separate locations, with packaged kratom recovered during both death investigations, according to Lafayette County Metro Narcotics. Authorities have not confirmed the deaths are connected or that kratom or any other substance caused either death. Local, state, and federal agencies are investigating the cases separately. The university confirmed both victims were students and extended condolences to their families.

What happened Monday

One student was found unresponsive in Stewart Hall on the Ole Miss campus just after 1:30 p.m. on Monday, September 21. First responders performed CPR. The second student was found dead off campus in Oxford. Neither student has been publicly identified by authorities. The deaths occurred after a busy weekend when Ole Miss hosted rival Louisiana State University for a football game on Saturday.

Kratom found but not confirmed as cause

Packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations, according to Lafayette County Metro Narcotics. The agency stated it has not confirmed that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death. Officials urged residents to avoid kratom and any medication or substance not prescribed by a doctor or obtained from a trusted, regulated source.

What is kratom and why the concern

Kratom is an herbal extract from a Southeast Asian tree that can produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects. It is marketed to help with pain and anxiety but is not FDA approved, meaning it is sold without regulation. The substance has gained popularity in the U.S. as an unapproved treatment and is sometimes sold at gas stations or online. A main component of kratom was found in the systems of Memphis Grizzlies player Brandon Clarke and Grammy-nominated producer Tay Keith after their overdose deaths earlier this year.

Campus response and ongoing investigation

The University of Mississippi said it is heartbroken by the loss and extended condolences to families and loved ones. Dr. Shawnboda Mead, vice chancellor for student affairs, warned that the coroner’s office has confirmed only two student deaths and urged the community not to speculate. Greek organizations on campus have reminded members not to take anything not prescribed by a doctor. Autopsies are being scheduled. The investigation remains ongoing with no confirmed link between the two deaths.

Final Thoughts

Two Ole Miss students died Monday with kratom recovered at both scenes, but authorities have not confirmed the substance caused either death. The investigation is ongoing with no confirmed connection between the cases. Residents are warned to avoid kratom and unregulated substances.

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