The Delta State University community is mourning after the body of Demartravion “Trey” Reed, 21, was found hanging from a tree near the school’s pickleball courts earlier this week.

Authorities say they have uncovered no signs of foul play so far, yet the circumstances of the young Black student’s death have left his family and many others searching for answers.

Bolivar County Coroner Rudy Seals said an initial examination revealed no injuries consistent with assault. Still, Trey’s loved ones, describing him as a bright, fun-loving young man with hopes for the future, have turned to civil rights attorney Ben Crump for support. “We cannot accept vague conclusions when so many questions remain,” Crump said, promising to fight for transparency.

The case has struck a painful chord in Mississippi, a state haunted by the shadow of its history of racial violence. “We cannot ignore Mississippi’s painful history of lynching and racial violence against African Americans,” said Rep. Bennie Thompson, who is calling for a federal investigation.

Delta State President Dan Ennis urged compassion as the community reels from the loss, acknowledging the painful imagery raised by Trey’s death. An event marking the university’s centennial was canceled in mourning, and increased security has been placed on campus following threats.

Trey’s death came just hours before another man, found more than 100 miles away, was discovered hanged in Vicksburg — a grim coincidence that has only deepened unease.

As investigators continue their work, Trey Reed’s family and classmates are left with heartbreak and a growing demand: clear answers about how and why a young life so full of promise came to such a devastating end.