Authorities in Oxford, Mississippi, are investigating the deaths of two University of Mississippi students.
Authorities Urge Caution Following Death Investigations Linked to Kratom
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics reported on Tuesday that packaged kratom was discovered during two separate death investigations. However, officials clarified that there is currently no evidence linking the deaths to kratom or suggesting that the substance contributed to either case.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation while the investigations are ongoing. In their statement, they emphasized, “Law enforcement is currently conducting two separate death investigations. At this time, we have no confirmed evidence indicating that the two deaths are connected. However, packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations. 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.”
The department reiterated that there is no confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death. They continue to call for public restraint regarding speculation about the circumstances or causes of the deaths as investigations proceed.
What we know about the deaths
The students were 18 and 20 years old. NIDA says serious health problems have been reported in some people who use kratom, including psychiatric, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and respiratory issues. However, deaths linked to kratom products are relatively rare, and nearly all reported cases have also involved other drugs or contaminants. Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The Coroner’s Office has confirmed two student deaths, and University Police are not aware of any additional student deaths. We encourage our community not to speculate about the circumstances or repeat information that has not been officially confirmed.
Kratom is an herbal substance that can have both opioid-like and stimulant-like effects, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). One student was found on the Ole Miss campus, while the other was found off campus at their residence, according to WAPT. The Lafayette County Coroner’s Office said autopsies are being scheduled and will help determine the causes of death. The Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said, as a community safety measure, free Narcan is available through vending machines on the Ole Miss campus and at the downtown parking garage in Oxford. Authorities have not said that either student died from an opioid overdose, and the cause of both deaths remains under investigation.
Kratom products are legal and available in many parts of the US, although health agencies continue to study their potential risks and effects. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved kratom for any medical use. Some people report using kratom for pain, fatigue, mental health concerns or to manage opioid withdrawal and cravings. Researchers are continuing to study whether kratom or its chemical compounds could have medical uses. Tuesday afternoon, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Dr. Shawnboda Mead posted a message on social media: “The University is heartbroken by the recent loss of two students and extends our condolences to their families, friends and loved ones during this difficult time. We are aware that considerable unverified information is circulating on social media and in the community regarding these recent student deaths. University Police remain in contact with local and state law enforcement, and the causes of the two deaths are still under investigation. We appreciate your understanding and support for our campus community during this difficult time. Narcan, also known as naloxone, can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and is available to members of the community at no cost.
