Two University of Mississippi students have been found dead in separate incidents, whose deaths prompted a warning from authorities after packages of the controversial herbal extract kratom were discovered during both investigations.
The students died Monday in Oxford, Mississippi, according to Lafayette County officials.
One emergency call involved a possible overdose at the university’s Stewart Hall, where a student was reportedly found unresponsive as CPR was being performed. The second student was found dead off campus.
Investigators have yet to establish the cause of either death or whether the cases are connected.
Police urge caution over herbal extract
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics confirmed that packaged kratom found during investigations was purchased from a retail store.
The agency, in a statement, said the deaths were being treated as separate cases. “We have no confirmed evidence indicating that the two deaths are connected,” officials said.
They also cautioned against drawing conclusions about the substance itself. “We do not have confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death.”
Despite the lack of confirmation that the deaths are linked to kratom, authorities urged residents to avoid kratom and any medication or substance that was not prescribed by a doctor or obtained from a trusted, regulated source.
University heartbroken as rumors spread
The University of Mississippi confirmed the deaths and appealed to students and the wider community not to spread unverified information. “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,” said Shawnboda Mead, vice chancellor for student affairs.
University officials also said they were unaware of any additional student deaths, addressing rumors circulating on social media.
The university’s police department remains in contact with local and state law enforcement agencies as the investigations continue.
Autopsy and toxicology findings are expected to help clarify the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
What is kratom?
Kratom is an herbal substance derived from the leaves of a tree native to Southeast Asia. It is sold in various forms, including powders, capsules, and extracts, and is often marketed for pain relief, energy or relaxation.
Its effects can vary depending on the amount consumed. Some compounds in kratom can produce stimulant-like effects, while larger doses may cause sedation and opioid-like effects.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned about potential risks associated with kratom, including liver toxicity, seizures, dependence and other serious health effects. Products may also vary in potency and could contain contaminants.
Kratom is not uniformly regulated across the United States. In Mississippi, restrictions vary by jurisdiction, with Lafayette County among the areas that have prohibited or restricted its sale.
Officials reminded students that free Narcan, the opioid-overdose reversal medication, is available through vending machines on campus and in downtown Oxford parking garages.
