Mississippi is in shock after two eerily similar tragedies struck on Monday, leaving families and communities searching for answers. Within hours of each other, two men — one a young college student and the other a homeless man — were found dead, hanging from trees in separate towns.
The discoveries, one in Cleveland and the other in Vicksburg, have shaken public confidence, fueled demands for transparency, and resurfaced painful reminders of the South’s history of racial violence.
Student’s life cut short at Delta State University
The first tragedy unfolded at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi. Around 7:05 a.m., campus police discovered the body of 21-year-old student Demartravion “Trey” Reed hanging from a tree near the pickleball courts.
University Police Chief Michael L. Peeler confirmed the report at a press conference, noting that investigators had not yet found evidence of foul play. Reed’s body was turned over to the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and other agencies for further review.
Authorities are investigating the case as a possible suicide, but speculation has spread quickly online. Some posts claim Reed’s body showed signs of physical abuse, including broken limbs. One viral message read:
“Tell me, Trey Reed was found beaten with three broken limbs. What the fuck kind of suicide is that?”
The tragedy struck just as Delta State prepared to launch its centennial celebrations, which were immediately canceled. The university also suspended classes and offered counseling for students and staff.
“Our community is deeply saddened by their loss,” the university said in a statement. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends impacted.”
Another victim found near Vicksburg casino
Hours earlier, at 1:30 p.m., Vicksburg police received a call about another grim discovery. A man’s body was found hanging from a tree in a wooded area near the Ameristar Casino.
Warren County Coroner Doug L. Huskey identified the deceased as Corey Zukatis, 36, a homeless man. He confirmed Zukatis had been discovered around 10:30 a.m. but released no further details.
Authorities have not reported any signs of foul play, but the similarities to Reed’s death — both men found hanging from trees within hours in Mississippi — have drawn national attention and outrage.
Public grief and growing suspicion
The two deaths, so close in time and circumstance, have fueled widespread speculation and grief. Many online voices reject the idea that both cases are suicides.
One commenter wrote:
“Two young people lynched in Mississippi. Two children. They had aspirations and a family. Police are already trying to convince us this is a suicide.”
Another demanded more recognition:
“Where is the fury over this? Where are the moments of silence? Where are the Instagram stories, thinkpieces, and flags at half-mast? These boys were lynched in 2025.”
Others called for unity and action:
“Think it’s time to organize, it’s been that time. Gotta come together as humans. This shit ain’t right! TO their families, healing.”
A state haunted by history
The discoveries reopen old wounds in Mississippi, long scarred by racial violence and lynchings. Despite officials saying there is no immediate threat to the public, many remain doubtful, citing a history of premature conclusions in such cases.
For Reed’s peers, the loss is especially devastating. A promising young man with his future ahead of him, his death has left classmates and teachers heartbroken. For Zukatis, already marginalized by homelessness, the lack of answers compounds his erasure.
Together, their deaths paint a grim picture of private sorrow and collective trauma in a state still wrestling with its past.
A developing story
As investigators continue their work, families grieve privately while communities mourn openly. The circumstances surrounding the deaths of Demartravion “Trey” Reed and Corey Zukatis remain unclear, but their passing has already left a profound mark on Mississippi.
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