Ben Crump Joins Probe into Delta State Student’s Hanging Death Amid Calls for FBI Involvement

The family of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a Black student found dead by hanging on the Delta State University campus, has retained prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump, intensifying calls for a thorough and independent investigation into his death. Reed’s body was discovered near campus pickleball courts on Monday, prompting initial reports from Delta State police chief Michael Peeler suggesting suicide with no signs of foul play.

However, the circumstances surrounding Reed’s death have sparked widespread concern, drawing painful comparisons to Mississippi’s history of racial violence. Attorney Crump, leading a team of civil rights leaders, stated on Tuesday that the family and community deserve a full, independent inquiry to uncover the truth, rejecting ‘vague conclusions when so many questions remain.’ The family plans to seek an independent autopsy as their legal team conducts its own investigation parallel to local police and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation.

Adding to the pressure, Mississippi Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson has publicly urged the FBI to intervene, emphasizing the agency’s experience and impartiality. The FBI has confirmed awareness of the case and stated it is prepared to investigate if evidence of a federal violation emerges. Rumors of physical assault have been disputed by Bolivar county coroner Randolph Seals Jr., who reported no signs of lacerations, contusions, fractures, or other injuries consistent with an assault after a preliminary examination.

The NAACP has also expressed skepticism regarding initial findings, highlighting a historical context where Black individuals have not ‘historically hung ourselves from trees’ and calling for a cautious approach pending formal autopsy reports. Delta State University President Dan Ennis confirmed on Tuesday that the university has resumed operations while cooperating fully with investigators, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to finding answers and supporting Reed’s family.

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