The Tragic Death of Delta State University Student De’Martravion “Trey” Reed
The recent death of De’Martravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student at Delta State University, has left his community in shock and mourning. Found hanging from a tree near the campus pickleball courts, the circumstances surrounding his untimely death have sparked questions, heartache, and a call for clarity among students, faculty, and the wider community.
Emotional Last Moments
Eyewitness accounts reveal the distress Reed was feeling in the days leading up to his death. Jy’Quon Wallace, president of the school’s African American Student Council, recounted seeing Reed engaged in a heated phone conversation the night before. “When my roommate and I came back, we saw him again at a distance, and he didn’t see us,” Wallace noted. “I could tell he was real upset.” Wallace observed Reed exhibiting signs of frustration, from making gestures to kicking the wall before storming off.
This narrative paints a picture of a student grappling with deep emotional turmoil. “I had never seen him like that before,” Wallace shared, emphasizing the shock over Reed’s sudden change in demeanor. His distress called for help that seemed to go unnoticed by those around him, highlighting the need for greater awareness of mental health issues within the student community.
Community Grief and Support
As news of Reed’s death spread, students at Delta State University began to gather, seeking solace in one another. Vigils were organized to honor Reed’s memory and provide a space for healing. “This was a student just like us,” reflected Wallace, emphasizing the collective grief felt across the diverse campus.
In light of this tragedy, the student body has united to discuss mental health and the importance of acknowledging when someone is struggling. The community has shown resilience in the face of adversity, working together to create an environment that fosters dialogue and understanding.
Investigation and Controversy
The initial findings from the Bolivar County coroner’s office suggested that Reed’s death was ruled a suicide, with no evidence indicating foul play. However, the family has expressed confusion and concern over conflicting reports they received regarding the circumstances of Reed’s death. They were initially informed that he was found in his dorm room rather than at the scene where he was discovered, leading them to question the investigation process.
In an attempt to seek justice and clarity, Reed’s family has enlisted the help of civil rights attorney Ben Crump. This decision underscores their desire for transparency as well as accountability in the investigation into their son’s death. “We are eager to uncover the truth about what happened to Trey,” the family stated, reflecting the sense of urgency surrounding the matter.
Official Investigations Underway
As the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation takes over the case, officials have been working to keep students informed. The university community remains hopeful that further inquiries will shed light on the events leading up to this tragedy. For many, the call for answers extends beyond justice; it is a plea for understanding the underlying issues that may have contributed to Reed’s distress.
Final Thoughts
The death of Trey Reed serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by students, particularly regarding mental health and wellbeing. It has prompted an urgent conversation on campus that transcends Reed’s story, urging students and faculty alike to recognize the signs of distress in their peers. The community is left not only to grieve the loss of a bright young life but to reflect on how it can better support one another moving forward.