Two University of Mississippi students have died, according to a statement by the university.
According to WMC Action 5 News, an NBC Station in Memphis, public safety officials were dispatched to Stewart Hall on the Ole Miss Campus just after 1:30 p.m. Monday for a report of a “possible overdose.” In that instance, the person was unresponsive and given CPR.
No other details were provided on the circumstances surrounding the second student’s death.
The Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement stating it is currently conducting two separate death investigations but has not confirmed evidence indicating that the deaths are connected.
According to the LCSO, packaged kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations.
It says it has not confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death.
What are kratom’s uses and risks and how are states regulating it?
Ole Miss police are working with state and local law enforcement to investigate, and at this time, it remains unclear how the students died.
The deaths come a few days after LSU and Ole Miss played each other Saturday in Oxford.
Ole Miss reacts:
Ole Miss issued a statement on the deaths of its students:
“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. The Coroner’s Office has confirmed two student deaths, and University Police are not aware of any additional 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 encourage our community not to speculate about the circumstances or repeat information that has not been officially confirmed. We appreciate your understanding and support for our campus community during this difficult time.”
Mississippi Attorney General issues statement:
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch issued the following statement regarding the student’s deaths:
“One Pill Can Kill is not just a slogan. It’s a fact. It is why we have worked so hard with universities to raise awareness about fake pills, to spread Narcan as far and wide as possible, and to train students on what to do if someone is overdosing. We have reached out to our partners, including the Ole Miss Magee Center and HarborPath, to surge the resources and information needed to stop these tragic deaths. Our prayers are with the families and friends already impacted.”
Fitch created an initiative called “One Pill Can Kill” to fight the fentanyl epidemic. On Tuesday, Fitch’s office was at Ole Miss training students on how to give Narcan and how to respond to an overdose.
This is an ongoing investigation.
What is Kratom?
Kratom comes from a tree in Southeast Asia. Its leaves are used to make supplements, which are also called Kratom.
Kratom is sold in many forms, including pills, teas, and tonics.
Kratom can have multiple uses. In some instances, it can be used as a stimulant. In larger amounts, Kratom can be used like a sedative.
Public health officials across the country have voiced concerns about Kratom being used in highly concentrated ways.
Kratom is not legal in Louisiana, and is restricted in Mississippi.
Many states where Kratom is legal, it is accessible on store shelves.
READ MORE:Two Ole Miss students found dead; kratom discovered at both scenes. Here’s what we know
