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Mississippi officials investigate deaths of two students after packaged kratom recovered

Authorities emphasize the two cases remain separate and unconfirmed substance factors are pending inquiry.

Updated Sep 22, 2026 · 22:34 UTC2 reports

The short version

  • Two Ole Miss students died Monday in separate locations, one on campus and one in Oxford, Mississippi.[Fox News · NBC News]
  • Packaged kratom sold from a retail outlet was found at both sites during separate death investigations.[Fox News · NBC News]
  • Authorities state there is no evidence linking the two cases and have not confirmed if any substance played a role.[Fox News · NBC News]

Key facts

  • Two University of Mississippi students were discovered dead on Monday, one found on campus and one within the city of Oxford.[Fox News · NBC News]
  • Commercially packaged kratom from a retail store was discovered at both investigation scenes.[Fox News · NBC News]
  • Lafayette County Metro Narcotics reported no evidence linking the two student deaths, which are being treated as separate inquiries.[Fox News · NBC News]
  • Kratom is prohibited by local ordinances in Oxford, Mississippi, though it remains available for purchase in adjacent counties.[NBC News]
  • Officials confirmed no other student deaths have occurred and urged the public to avoid speculation during active inquiries.[Fox News · NBC News]

What remains uncertain

  • The exact causes of death remain undetermined and under active investigation by authorities.[Fox News]
  • Whether kratom or any other substance contributed to either student's death has not been established.[Fox News · NBC News]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.