Autopsy: Trey Reed’s Hanging Death at Delta State Was a Suicide

Delta State University student Trey Reed’s death was a suicide, Cleveland Chief of Police Travis Tribble said on Thursday afternoon, announcing the results of the autopsy on the 21-year-old student, who was found hanging in a tree in the middle of campus on Monday, Sept. 15.

The findings of the Mississippi State Medical Examiner are consistent with the initial findings of the Bolivar County Coroner’s office, ruling Trey Reed’s death to be self-inflicted. Courtesy Cleveland Police Department

“On September 17, 2025, the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office conducted an autopsy. Findings were consistent with the initial investigation, determining the cause of death to be hanging and the manner of death as suicide. Final toxicology results are pending and may take two to four weeks to complete,” the statement said.

Additionally, Tribble said that “as part of the investigation, all files and investigative material have been turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney Office for review.”

The findings of the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s office are consistent with the initial findings of the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, which found no wounds on the body of Reed at the time of his discovery that would indicate foul play.

Friday morning, after this story was first published, WJTV reported that Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights Camp’s Autopsy Initiative will pay for the costs of a second autopsy after the state medical examiner releases Reed’s body.

“Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths,” wrote Attorney Benjamin Crump. “Peace will come only by getting to the truth. We thank Colin Kaepernick for supporting this grieving family and the cause of justice and truth.”

Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights campaign is funding a private autopsy for Delta State University student Trey Reed, who was found hanging from a tree on campus on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025. AP Photo/Frank Franklin II

Reed’s death has set off alarms nationwide, with numerous civil rights activists, lawyers, and political figures demanding a full and independent investigation into the young man’s death. Reed’s family, represented by Jones Law Firm attorney Vanessa J. Jones, will be seeking both an independent autopsy and an independent investigation into his demise.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Reed’s family and friends during this very difficult time. We want to encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for help,” Tribble wrote.

Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell also responded to the autopsy results.

“My condolences go out to the family of Trey Reed and all who knew and loved him,” he said. “I also applaud the quick work by the Cleveland Police Department, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and Delta State University to bring closure to his family, and I condemn the rumors circulating regarding his death.”

Read more of the Mississippi Free Press’ coverage of Trey Reed’s death here.