The body of 21-year-old Demartravion “Trey” Reed was found hanging from a tree on Delta State University’s campus Monday morning. An investigation is underway with the help of multiple departments. According to Delta State University Chief of Police Michael Peeler, no foul play is suspected at this time, as there is no evidence to suggest so.
The Unforeseen Tragedy
On Monday, September 15, 2025, Trey Reed was found dead hanging from a tree in Cleveland, Mississippi. According to DSU’s Chief of Police, the body of a Black male was discovered near the DSU pickleball course in the early morning, and around 7 a.m., officials were notified. Later on, Reed was identified as the individual, and an investigation of his death began.
According to the official statement on the events that happened, “At 7:32 a.m., the Bolivar County Coroner’s office was notified by the Cleveland Police Department regarding an unresponsive individual on the campus of Delta State University. At 8:08 a.m., representatives from the coroner’s office arrived on the scene and observed an unresponsive subject hanging from a tree.”
“At this current time, we are conducting a thorough death investigation. Based on the preliminary examination, we can confirm that the deceased did not suffer any lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the individual was physically attacked before his death,” the statement concluded.
The Investigation
Peeler informed the media that he has reached out to the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cleveland Police Department for assistance in the investigation. Social media rumors surfaced quickly that Trey Reed was discovered with broken arms and legs, but officials have since disputed those, stating they, along with the Bolivar County Deputy Coroner Murray Roark, did not see any indication of broken limbs.
Roark stated in his professional opinion that Reed’s death was “self-done, and I have reasons for that.” Due to the ongoing investigation, he is not permitted to share any further details. At a press conference, Delta State University President Dr. Dan Ennis advised everyone that there is no evidence to suggest the campus, along with all who inhabit it, is in danger. This appears to be an isolated incident, but the campus closed on Monday, meaning any events scheduled were cancelled.
Officials are currently investigating the death of Trey Reed. According to the coroner, his body was transported to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for an official autopsy. His death is predicted to be self-inflicted, but officials cannot fully confirm until the full autopsy report is released.
Trey Reed’s Family’s Statement
Many expressed their condolences to the situation and respected everyone’s privacy during this time. Trey Reed’s family also made a statement to Jackson news station 16 WAPT, saying, “Trey was our little quiet light. He was sweet, well-mannered, and would give you the world if he could. We ask that you continue to keep our family in your prayers as we continue to navigate through these unforeseen times.”
Situations that are unforeseen and irreversible are the most heartbreaking to everyone involved. If even a hint of foul play is suspected in the manner in which he was found to have died, hopefully the police will conduct a thorough and widespread investigation to bring justice for not only Reed’s family but also him and his fellow peers.
“Delta State University is a beautiful place to be,” DSU Chief of Police Michael Peeler said, “It’s unfortunate, this loss that comes heavy to our campus.” The university President also made a statement that “Our community is deeply saddened by this loss. I have spoken to Trey’s family and expressed our heartbreak.”
