Down In The Delta: Men Hanging On Mississippi Trees!

Was it a suicide or a lynching?

Two men were hanging from a tree. 

People are lynching again. 

Y'all voted for this.

Where is the outrage?

President Donald J. Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Attorney General Pam Bondi, FBI Director Kash Patel and Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, where the fuck ya at?

Demartravion “Trey” Reed and Cory Zukatis were found dead hanging from trees in two separate incidents in Mississippi.

Both deaths were reported on the same day, approximately 150 miles apart, and involved men found suspended from trees. Authorities in both cases have preliminarily ruled out foul play, classifying them as apparent suicides pending full autopsies. However, the circumstances—especially the method and location—have reignited debates about systemic issues, mental health access, and trust in law enforcement investigations, particularly given the state's history of over 650 documented lynchings (mostly of Black men) between 1877 and 1950.

What happened to them?

So Trey Reed was a student at Delta State University. His body was discovered by several people. The Bolivar County coroner says they are conducting a thorough death investigation.

Randolph Seals, Jr. says 21-year old Demartravion "Trey" Reed did not suffer any lacerations, contusions, compound fractures, broken bones or injuries consistent with an assault. "At this time, there is no evidence to suggest the individual was physically attacked before his death," said Seals, Jr.

Authorities say Reed's body was found hanging from a tree by a faculty member near the pickleball courts Monday around 7 a.m.

The discovery led to all classes being canceled.

Word spread quickly throughout the Cleveland campus, leaving students and others concerned and worried.

"Well, because I am a Black student, hearing that happened to another black student, it really makes me feel unsafe," said DSU student Stacie Hoskins.

"I do have to walk to class, and I like to go walk the track, and it just, it would be nice to know what happened," said DSU student Eriana Murphy.

How did he die? Was it a suicide or a lynching?

DSU police Chief Michael Peeler said investigators found no evidence of foul play.

"Pending an investigation, further investigation, and also from the medical examiner's office, we won't have more information until that part has been done," Peeler said.

Members of Reed's family are insisting on a thorough investigation.

"Please, do your own research on this. Do not let them sweep nothing under the rug. Enough is enough," said Reed's cousin.

No schools in the area were put on lockdown, and police say there is no ongoing threat to campus safety at DSU.

The following statement was sent to 16 WAPT on behalf of the family: "Trey was our little quiet light. He was sweet, well mannered, and would give you the world if he could. We ask that you continue to keep our family in your prayers as we continue to navigate through these unforeseen times.”

The incident in Vicksburg surrounding a man who appeared to be homeless.

Warren County Coroner Doug L. Huskey confirmed to 16WAPT that the victim was Corey Zukatis, a 36-year-old homeless man from Brandon. Zukatis was found around 10:30 a.m. Monday near the Ameristar Casino.

Authorities have not released any additional information regarding the death of Zukatis. The victim's family has been notified.

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or 988, or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The deaf and hard of hearing can contact the Lifeline via TTY at 1-800-799-4889. All calls are confidential. Contact social media outlets directly if you are concerned about a friend’s social media updates or dial 911 in an emergency. Learn more on the Lifeline’s website or the Crisis Text Line’s website.

You can get help if you, a loved one or friend are dealing with drug abuse.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)

SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.