Ole Miss Names Two Students Found Dead as Kratom Investigation Deepens

Key points

• Hamilton, a freshman from Englewood, Colorado, was found unresponsive on campus at Stewart Hall and died after CPR attempts.
• Strang, a junior from Atlanta, was found dead at an off-campus residence in Oxford.
• Both students were discovered on Monday, September 22, 2026, within a few hours of each other.
• Packaged kratom was recovered at both locations, but no definitive link to the deaths has been established.
• The Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit is investigating the cases, with state investigators assisting.

Background

The deaths occurred on September 22, 2026, in Oxford, Mississippi. The university initially withheld names to respect family wishes but released them on September 24 after receiving permission. Kratom, an herb with opioid-like effects, has gained popularity in the U.S. as an unapproved treatment for pain and anxiety. The Drug Enforcement Administration notes it can have stimulating or sedating effects depending on dosage.

How outlets are covering it

NBC News and Action News 5 reported that the university released the names with family approval and emphasized the lack of a confirmed causal link between kratom and the deaths. Fox News highlighted that Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell stated foul play has not been ruled out, noting the suspicious timing of the deaths. Fox News also mentioned that campus Greek life leaders had previously circulated warnings about a synthetic opioid called cychlorphine, which may not show up on standard drug tests. All outlets reported that both families requested privacy and expressed gratitude for support. The Phi Delta Theta fraternity, of which Strang was a member, issued a statement mourning both victims.

Why it matters

The deaths have raised concerns about the safety of college campuses and the potential dangers of unregulated substances like kratom. The ongoing investigation aims to determine whether the deaths were related and to identify the source of the substances found at the scenes. The case underscores the need for accurate information and the importance of avoiding speculation during active investigations.

What to watch

Investigators are awaiting toxicology reports, which typically take weeks to complete. These reports will help determine the cause and manner of death. Authorities are also working to track the source of the kratom found at both scenes. The university has urged the community to avoid sharing unverified information and to seek support from counseling services if needed.