Colin Kaepernick Funds Independent Autopsy for Delta State Student Trey Reed

CLEVELAND, Miss. — Civil rights activist and former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick is stepping forward to help the family of De’Martravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Delta State University student whose sudden death has stirred grief and suspicion across Mississippi. Kaepernick’s foundation, the Know Your Rights Camp, will fund an independent autopsy after authorities ruled Reed’s death a suicide.

A Tragic Discovery on Campus

On September 15, Reed was discovered hanging from a tree near Delta State’s pickleball courts. Campus police and the Bolivar County coroner quickly announced there was no sign of assault or foul play. The Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed the death as suicide by hanging, though toxicology reports are still pending and may take several weeks.

Despite these findings, Reed’s family has voiced concerns about inconsistencies in the case. Early reports misidentified the location of his body, and relatives say unanswered questions remain about how Reed died.

A Push for Answers

The family is represented by nationally known civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who has demanded a transparent and thorough investigation. Crump emphasized that “peace can only come when we arrive at the full truth,” echoing calls from Reed’s loved ones and community members for greater accountability.

That pursuit of truth is what prompted Kaepernick’s involvement. Through the Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative, his foundation routinely funds independent autopsies in controversial or disputed cases. This initiative has become a vital resource for families who seek second opinions when official reports raise doubts.

Why a Second Autopsy Matters

Independent autopsies often provide families with additional clarity. In cases involving young Black men, many families cite a historic lack of trust in official investigations, particularly when suicide is the initial ruling. A second autopsy can either confirm findings or highlight discrepancies, giving families confidence that every possibility has been explored.

For Reed’s family, the independent examination is more than just a medical review—it represents an opportunity for dignity, justice, and closure.

Community Reaction and Ongoing Probes

Reed’s death has shaken Delta State University and the surrounding Cleveland community. Vigils have been held in his memory, with students, faculty, and local residents calling for answers. Social media has amplified concerns, as many users point to a broader pattern of skepticism toward official accounts in cases involving Black students.

Law enforcement officials maintain that there is no evidence of foul play so far, but state and federal agencies are reviewing investigation files, video evidence, and other materials to ensure transparency.

A Case Under the Spotlight

With Kaepernick’s support, the Reed family now has the resources to pursue an independent path to the truth. Whether the new autopsy reaffirms the initial conclusion or reveals something new, it underscores the importance of trust and accountability in high-profile cases like this.

For Trey Reed’s family, the search for answers continues—but thanks to this intervention, they will not have to walk that path alone.