Local and county authorities are investigating the deaths of two University of Mississippi students after packaged kratom purchased from a retail store was found during separate investigations, though officials have not determined whether the substance played a role in either death. The investigation follows an emergency response Monday afternoon at Stewart Hall, where first responders were called shortly after 1:30 p.m. for a report of a possible overdose involving an unresponsive person, according to an emergency dispatch recording obtained by Action News 5.
During both inquiries, emergency responders discovered packaged kratom purchased from a retail establishment. Law enforcement officials noted that one student, aged 18, was found in a campus residence hall, while the second student, aged 20, was discovered at an off-campus dwelling. Although the over-the-counter herbal product was present at both locations, investigators emphasized that they have no physical proof linking the two incidents or establishing that the herbal compound caused either death. In addition, the university has cautioned students and the public against relying on unverified information circulating online and confirmed that campus police are not aware of any additional student deaths.
In a joint effort to address public safety, Lafayette County Metro Narcotics urged community members to exercise caution regarding unregulated items. “Out of an abundance of caution, we encourage everyone to avoid kratom and any other medication or substance that was not prescribed to you or obtained from a trusted, regulated source,” police said. University officials expressed sorrow regarding the tragic events while warning against the spread of false claims online.
University of Mississippi Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Shawnboda Mead released a statement addressing the ongoing inquiries and social media reports. “We are aware that considerable unverified information is circulating on social media and in the community regarding these recent student deaths,” Mead said, adding, “We encourage our community not to speculate about the circumstances or repeat information that has not been officially confirmed”. Medical examiners at the Lafayette County Coroner’s Office are scheduling autopsies and pending toxicology tests, which typically take two to three weeks, to pinpoint the precise causes of death.
Meanwhile, local officials reminded students that free harm-reduction resources, including Narcan dispensaries, are available across the campus and throughout the city of Oxford. Kratom is a plant-based substance capable of producing mind-altering and stimulant-like outcomes, though it remains unapproved by federal health regulators for medical applications. While the substance is accessible to adults in several regions, municipal codes in Oxford and Lafayette County strictly prohibit its sale. Authorities maintain that official updates will be shared once formal laboratory findings are completed.
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