Trey Reed: Mississippi is in shock after two tragic and eerily similar incidents unfolded on the same day. Within hours of each other, two men were discovered hanging from trees in separate cities, leaving families, friends, and communities desperate for answers.
The disturbing cases — one in Cleveland and another in Vicksburg — have reignited painful memories of racial violence in the South and raised serious questions about how these deaths are being investigated.
Delta State University Student’s Death Shakes Campus
The first tragedy occurred at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, where 21-year-old student Demartravion “Trey” Reed was found hanging from a tree near the campus pickleball courts around 7:05 a.m.
University Police Chief Michael L. Peeler confirmed that no evidence of foul play had been discovered so far. Reed’s body was turned over to the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation for further review.
Although authorities are treating the case as a possible suicide, social media quickly erupted with speculation. Viral posts alleged signs of physical abuse on Reed’s body, fueling doubts and outrage. One widely shared message read: “Trey Reed was found beaten with broken limbs. What kind of suicide is that?”
The tragedy overshadowed what should have been a celebratory week for Delta State, which had planned to launch its centennial observances. The university canceled events, suspended classes, and offered counseling services to students and staff.
In a statement, Delta State said: “Our community is deeply saddened by this loss. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Trey Reed’s family and friends.”
Second Victim Found Near Vicksburg Casino
Just hours later, another devastating discovery was made in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Around 1:30 p.m., police responded to a call about a body hanging from a tree in a wooded area near the Ameristar Casino.
The deceased was identified as Corey Zukatis, 36, a homeless man. Warren County Coroner Doug L. Huskey confirmed his death but released limited details. Authorities again reported no immediate signs of foul play.
While little is known about Zukatis’s final days, the parallels between his death and Reed’s have alarmed residents and observers nationwide. Two men, found hanging from trees in Mississippi within hours, has raised widespread suspicion and grief.
Public Outcry and Rising Suspicion
The timing and similarity of the two deaths have fueled debate across social media. Many believe the incidents may not be suicides at all.
One user wrote: “Two young people lynched in Mississippi. Police are already trying to convince us this is suicide.”
Another questioned the silence: “Where is the outrage? Where are the vigils, the flags at half-mast? These boys were lynched in 2025.”
Others called for unity and action, urging communities to organize and demand justice.
Mississippi’s Troubled Past Resurfaces
These tragedies have reopened old wounds in Mississippi, a state long associated with lynchings and racial violence. Despite official assurances that there is no threat to the public, skepticism remains high.
For Reed’s peers, the loss is deeply personal — a promising young life cut short. For Zukatis, the lack of recognition highlights the double burden faced by the homeless: marginalized in life and overlooked in death.
Together, their stories form a grim reminder of both private grief and collective trauma.
A Developing Story
As investigations continue, the families of Demartravion “Trey” Reed and Corey Zukatis grieve privately while the wider community mourns publicly. The truth behind their deaths remains uncertain, but their passing has already left a lasting mark on Mississippi and beyond.
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