University of Mississippi officials announced that two of their students have died, prompting an investigation by the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Department. While the department has not confirmed any connection between the deaths, both cases involved packaged kratom purchased from a local retailer.
Investigation details
The Metro Narcotics Department released a statement on September 22 indicating that the two deaths are being examined separately. “We do not have confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death,” the department said, urging the public to refrain from speculation while the investigations continue.
According to Lafayette County Coroner Glenn Coleman, one victim was an 18‑year‑old male found inside his on‑campus dormitory, and the other was a 20‑year‑old male discovered at his off‑campus residence. Identities have not been released pending notification of families.
University response
Dr. Shawnboda Mead, the university’s vice chancellor for student affairs, expressed the campus community’s sorrow: “The University is heartbroken by the recent loss of two students and extends our condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.” Mead also noted that the university is aware of unverified information circulating on social media and that campus police have not identified any additional student deaths.
Autopsies and toxicology tests are scheduled, with results expected within two to three weeks. The coroner’s office will release findings once they are available.
What is kratom?
Kratom is a plant‑derived supplement from Southeast Asia that is marketed for its purported relaxing and energizing effects. The National Institute on Drug Abuse notes that kratom can produce both opioid‑like and stimulant‑like effects, and that its safety profile remains under study. Some products contain high concentrations of 7‑Hydroxymitragynine (7‑OH), a potent byproduct that has drawn scrutiny from the FDA.
Medical experts caution that all kratom products carry a risk of addiction and may cause psychiatric, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or respiratory problems in some users.
Official warning
In its statement, Lafayette County Narcotics urged residents to avoid kratom and any other medication or substance that has not been prescribed or obtained from a trusted, regulated source. The department emphasized that the safety of these products cannot be guaranteed.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities ask the community to allow law enforcement and medical examiners to complete their work without speculation.
Original reporting: Las Cruces Sun News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
