After Trey Reed, 21, was found dead at Delta State University, an official autopsy determined he died by suicide, but his family has challenged that finding
Loved ones gathered over the weekend to honor the life of a 21-year-old Black college student who was found dead on his university’s campus in Mississippi earlier this month.
Demartravion “Trey” Reed was found hanging from a tree on the campus of Delta State University (DSU) on the morning of Monday, Sept. 15. News of his death sparked outrage across the nation as officials repeatedly said there was no evidence of foul play in connection with Reed’s death.
Reed’s funeral service was held on Saturday, Sept. 27 at Abundant Life Assembly of The Apostolic Faith in Grenada, and he was interred shortly after, according to his obituary.
During the service, Reed was honored by various loved ones, including his sister, who said in a speech, “Though miles may separate us and time may keep us apart, know that you’re always close to my heart. Your laughter, your wisdom, your strength, they are all pillars of my life, and in moments of joy and sorrow, you’ve been my rock, my confidante, my guide in life.”
“Your present is a treasure I cherish dearly, and in your absence, I feel a void that only your love can fill. Though words may fail to express the depth of infection, let them serve as a testament to the bond we share, a bond unbreakable,” she continued, adding: “Until we meet again, know that you are missed and you are loved, and you’re always in my thoughts with all my love.”
An autopsy conducted by the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s office determined that Reed, 21, died by suicide. However, his family has challenged the finding.
Attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the family, previously announced that former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s “Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative” will cover the costs of an independent autopsy, according to a statement obtained by PEOPLE.
Shortly after news of Reed’s death was made public, several social media posts alleged that Reed had two broken legs and additional injuries that would have made it impossible for him to hang himself, according to the Clarion Ledger.
This was disputed by the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office (BCCO), which previously said in a statement that Reed “did not suffer any lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an assault,” the Ledger reported.
Delta State’s Director of Public Safety Mike Peeler has also stated that there is no evidence of foul play in connection with Reed’s death, according to a statement from the school.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with Reed’s family and friends during this very difficult time,” said Cleveland Police Chief Travis Tribble in a statement after Reed’s autopsy results were released. “We want to encourage anyone who is struggling to reach out for help.”
However, Reed’s family has “has raised serious concerns after receiving conflicting accounts and incomplete information about the circumstances of his death,” a representative for Crump’s office wrote in a release.
“Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths. Peace will come only by getting to the truth,” the attorney wrote in a statement. “We thank Colin Kaepernick for supporting this grieving family and the cause of justice and truth.”
The Mississippi Clarion Ledger reported those results have not been made public yet.
In a previous statement obtained by PEOPLE, Crump said Reed was “full of promise and warmth, deeply loved and respected by all who knew him.”
“His family and the campus community deserve a full, independent investigation to uncover the truth about what happened,” Crump said. “We cannot accept vague conclusions when so many questions remain.”