Two University of Mississippi students were found dead this week in separate incidents, and packaged kratom was discovered during both investigations, authorities said. Officials have emphasized that there is currently no evidence confirming that the substance contributed to either death or that the cases are connected.
Authorities Treat Deaths as Separate Investigations
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said Tuesday that investigators have found no information indicating a link between the two deaths.
Both students were found dead Monday. One was discovered on the University of Mississippi campus, commonly known as Ole Miss, while the other was found at a location in the city of Oxford, according to Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill.
The identities of the students have not been publicly released.
Local, state and federal authorities are involved in the investigations, which are being handled as separate cases.
Packaged Kratom Discovered at Both Locations
According to Lafayette County Metro Narcotics, packaged kratom purchased from a retail store was found during both investigations. Authorities stressed that the discovery alone does not establish that kratom played a role in either death.
The agency urged residents and students to avoid taking kratom or other medications and substances that were not prescribed to them or obtained through trusted, regulated sources.
Capt. Alex Fauver, commander of the Metro Narcotics unit, said kratom was found at each student’s residence.
Kratom is derived from a tree native to Southeast Asia and has become increasingly available in the United States. It is sometimes marketed or used for purposes including pain relief, anxiety and drug-dependence management, although it is not an FDA-approved treatment for those conditions.
What Is Kratom?
Kratom can have different effects depending on the amount consumed. It may produce stimulating effects at some doses and sedating effects at higher doses. The substance has also been associated with adverse effects, including potentially serious reactions.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration lists kratom as a drug and chemical of concern, although it is not federally prohibited.
The Mayo Clinic has also warned about kratom’s safety and effectiveness, noting that reported deaths involving the substance have generally included other drugs or substances as well.
Kratom is prohibited under local law in Oxford, Mississippi, but authorities said it can still be purchased in nearby counties.
University Community Reacts to Student Deaths
The University of Mississippi expressed condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of the two students.
The deaths have caused concern across the campus community. Raegan Settle, editor-in-chief of the student newspaper The Daily Mississippian, said students were shocked as details emerged.
Some fraternities and sororities began displaying black ribbons as a sign of mourning, while Greek organizations reminded members not to use medications or substances that were not specifically prescribed to them.
Authorities said there have been no reports of additional student deaths or other members of the university and Oxford community being affected.
Officials Warn Against Online Speculation
Investigators also cautioned the public against spreading unverified claims about the deaths.
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said there was considerable concern, speculation and misinformation circulating online as investigators continued gathering evidence.
Officials have not identified a cause of death for either student and have not established any connection between the two cases.
The investigations remain ongoing, and authorities are expected to release additional information when confirmed findings become available.
