Something about Trey Reed’s death doesn’t add up.
The 21-year-old Delta State University student was found hanging from a tree near the school’s pickleball courts, yet his family says they were initially told he died peacefully in his dorm bed.
Conflicting accounts, missing information, and whispers of withheld surveillance footage have left Reed’s loved ones—and much of the campus community—demanding the truth about what happened on the morning of September 15.
Attorneys representing Demartravion “Trey” Reed’s family say law enforcement provided inconsistent information in the hours following his death.
Reed, a student at Delta State University, was discovered hanging near the pickleball courts early Monday, September 15.
Family attorney Vanessa J. Jones revealed that the Grenada County Sheriff’s Department first told the family Reed had been found dead in his dorm room, in bed. Reed’s grandfather, J.B. Reed, later told ABC affiliate WAPT that the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Department official who relayed that information labeled it a “suicide” rather than a possible suicide, adding to the confusion.
Delta State’s Director of Public Safety, Mike Peeler, told reporters on September 17 that he was unaware of the dorm death claim. Jones has called on the university to release all surveillance footage from campus cameras that could clarify Reed’s movements that morning. “With so many cameras across campus, there should be video showing Trey’s steps from his dorm to the pickleball courts,” she said. “That’s what the family deserves.”
Peeler confirmed such footage exists and is with investigators but offered no further details. Officials from the Bolivar County Sheriff’s Office, Grenada Police Department, and Delta State University have so far declined to comment publicly. Attempts to reach the Grenada County Sheriff’s Office were unsuccessful, with its website currently offline.
Reed’s family has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who described Trey as “a young man full of promise and warmth, loved by all who knew him.” Crump denounced “vague conclusions” and vowed to lead civil rights leaders in demanding a thorough, independent investigation.
Meanwhile, speculation on social media has circulated claims that Reed sustained broken legs and other injuries incompatible with hanging, though officials dispute these reports. The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office stated preliminary findings show no lacerations, fractures, or signs of assault. “There is currently no evidence Trey was attacked prior to his death,” the coroner’s office said.
Despite indicating no foul play is suspected, Peeler emphasized the investigation remains open. Delta State President Daniel Ennis acknowledged the widespread anguish, saying Reed’s death has “stirred many emotions on campus and across the state.” Ennis added that while facts are critical, “this tragedy is about more than just facts—it’s about feelings and the search for truth.”
Reed’s body has been sent to the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office for a full autopsy, with results pending.
🔹 Conclusion
The death of Trey Reed has left a community grappling with more questions than answers. A promising young life ended under circumstances clouded by conflicting reports, unanswered questions, and growing suspicion.
As civil rights leaders join the family in demanding transparency and accountability, the public awaits the release of surveillance footage, autopsy results, and clear explanations. Until then, grief is entwined with doubt, and the call for justice and clarity for Trey remains urgent.