2 University of Mississippi students found dead; kratom found in both investigations
Two University of Mississippi students have died, and authorities are investigating whether the deaths are connected, according to officials. Packaged kratom was found during both investigations.
The deaths occurred on Monday, according to Lafayette County Metro Narcotics. The University of Mississippi, based in Oxford, said the coroner’s office had confirmed two student deaths and campus police are not aware of any additional student deaths.
Law enforcement is conducting two separate investigations. Officials have not released the students’ names, the locations where they died or the causes of death.
“At this time, we have no confirmed evidence indicating that the two deaths are connected,” Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said. “However, packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations.”
The agency asked people to avoid kratom as a precaution, along with medications or substances that were not prescribed to them or obtained from a trusted, regulated source.
“We do not have confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death,” the agency added.
Local, state and federal authorities are working on the investigations. Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said it would notify the public if investigators identify a confirmed threat to public safety.
The agency also said that free Narcan, which can reverse an opioid overdose, is available through vending machines on campus and at the downtown parking garage in Oxford.
Kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia whose leaves contain compounds that can produce stimulant and opioid-like effects. It is sold in products such as powders, capsules and extracts, often marketed for pain relief, energy or relaxation.
The post 2 University of Mississippi students found dead; kratom found in both investigations appeared first on BNO News.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
