Oxford, Miss. – The state’s Department of Public Safety announced that toxicology reports for the deaths of two University of Mississippi students are expected as early as next week. The victims, identified as 20‑year‑old junior Robert Strang of Atlanta and 18‑year‑old freshman Aidan Hamilton of Colorado, have families requesting privacy while investigators work to determine the cause of death.
Potential use of anti‑fentanyl statute
Commissioner Sean Tindell told Fox News Digital that if the pending reports show fentanyl was involved, law enforcement will coordinate with prosecutors to apply Mississippi’s 2022 Parker’s Law. The statute allows criminal charges when an unlawful delivery of fentanyl results in a death, providing a tool to hold dealers accountable.
“Under Parker’s Law, enacted in 2022, criminal charges may be pursued when an unlawful delivery of fentanyl results in a person’s death,” Tindell said. “If the investigation establishes those circumstances, law enforcement will work with prosecutors to pursue the appropriate charges and hold those responsible accountable.”
Related narcotics raid in Oxford
Separately, Oxford police disclosed the arrest of two men, 51‑year‑old Yahya Mohamed Mosleh and 18‑year‑old Islam Mohamed, in connection with a raid on a local tobacco shop. The shop, Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store, located in the 100 block of Heritage Drive, was searched after investigators linked the business to a broader narcotics investigation.
Police reported recovering more than 500 units of kratom, along with THC cartridges, gummies, and other suspected narcotics. Kratom has been prohibited in the City of Oxford since 2019, though it remains legal in many other parts of the country.
The store’s owner, 40‑year‑old Amer Alowdi, was previously indicted on trafficking charges in 2022 and fled the country before prosecution. Authorities said it was unclear how the business remained open after his indictment.
Governor pledges resources
Governor Tate Reeves announced that state resources would be allocated this week to help expedite the toxicology testing. While such analyses often take weeks, Reeves emphasized the urgency of the Ole Miss case and the administration’s commitment to swift, thorough investigation.
Community response and ongoing investigation
Classmates of the deceased students have circulated warnings about a synthetic opioid known as cychlorphine, noting that multiple doses of Narcan may be required to reverse its effects. Police have not confirmed the presence of this substance at either scene.
Commissioner Tindell cautioned that, although no foul play has been identified, investigators have not ruled it out. “Until the autopsy is reported, and the investigators have an opportunity to get statements and collect evidence, then that final determination will not be made until later,” he said.
The toxicology results will be critical in shaping any potential charges and in informing the community about the risks associated with illicit substances on campus and in the surrounding area.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
