Overview

• Mississippi’s state medical examiner determined the cause of death was hanging and the manner suicide, with toxicology results pending in two to four weeks.
• Investigators turned all case materials over to the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for review, and the FBI said it is prepared to investigate if a potential federal violation is identified.
• The Bolivar County coroner’s preliminary exam found no lacerations, fractures, or other injuries consistent with an assault, pushing back on unverified social media claims.
• Reed’s family, represented by attorneys Ben Crump and Vanessa J. Jones, is seeking an independent autopsy and access to campus video, citing conflicting early information they say they received.
• Delta State increased law enforcement presence, canceled events, and offered counseling after the death, as advocates and lawmakers referenced Mississippi’s history in calling for transparency.