Mississippi — In less than 24 hours, two separate communities in Mississippi were shaken by tragedy as two men were found dead in apparent suicides by hanging. Authorities have confirmed the victims as Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Delta State University student, and Cory Zukatis, a 36-year-old unhoused man discovered in Vicksburg.
Both deaths, occurring on Monday, September 15, 2025, have prompted widespread grief and renewed conversations about mental health, isolation, and the silent battles many face.
Delta State University Student Trey Reed Found on Campus
The first tragedy unfolded on the campus of Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi. Around 8 a.m., campus authorities were alerted to a student found near the pickleball courts in the central area of campus. The individual was later identified as Trey Reed, 21, a young man from Grenada, Mississippi.
University Police Chief Mike Peeler confirmed Reed was found hanging from a tree and pronounced dead at the scene. All classes and activities were suspended for the day as the school community mourned the devastating loss.
Reed’s death has left his classmates, professors, and family in shock. Known for his charisma and ambition, Trey was described as a bright presence on campus who dreamed of building a successful future.
“This is a tragedy that has touched every corner of Delta State,” one faculty member said. “Trey was loved, respected, and admired. Losing him this way is something we will never forget.”
Students gathered throughout the day to share memories and comfort one another, with some holding impromptu prayer circles on campus.
Vicksburg Tragedy: Cory Zukatis Found Near Ameristar Casino
Just hours later, another devastating discovery was made in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Around 10:30 a.m., police responded to a wooded area near the Ameristar Casino, where they found the body of 36-year-old Cory Zukatis. Authorities confirmed Zukatis was unhoused at the time of his death.
Investigators determined Zukatis died by suicide after being found hanging from a tree. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Local advocates say his death highlights the struggles faced by those experiencing homelessness. “Cory’s life mattered,” one community member said. “He was more than his circumstances. His passing is a heartbreaking reminder of how invisible people can feel.”
Shock and Concern Across Mississippi
The fact that two men — both at different stages of life and from very different circumstances — died by suicide in separate incidents within the same 24-hour period has left Mississippi reeling.
Tributes have poured in for both Reed and Zukatis. On social media, classmates described Reed as “a light on campus” and “a brother to so many.” Meanwhile, Vicksburg residents have expressed sorrow for Zukatis, remembering him as a quiet man who endured hardship but deserved compassion.
Mental health professionals are urging the public to recognize the significance of these tragedies. “When two hangings happen in the same state within a day, it should be a wake-up call,” one counselor explained. “It speaks to a level of despair we cannot ignore.”
Investigations Continue
Authorities in both Cleveland and Vicksburg have confirmed that the cases are being investigated as suicides, though no signs of foul play have been reported. Officials have asked the public to respect the privacy of both families as they grieve unimaginable losses.
A Call for Awareness and Support
The deaths of Trey Reed and Cory Zukatis underscore the urgent need for stronger community support systems, especially for young people and those experiencing homelessness.
Advocates stress that while the circumstances of their lives were very different, both men’s deaths reflect the devastating reality of mental health struggles.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., you can dial 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — a confidential, 24/7 resource.
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