Mississippi Mayor Warns of Kratom Dangers After Student Deaths

Oxford, Mississippi Mayor Robyn Tannehill has issued a stark warning about the dangers of kratom, a substance that has become a focal point in the investigation into the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. Tannehill described the consumption of kratom as akin to 'rolling the dice on death,' emphasizing the potential risks associated with the controversial plant-based product.

The bodies of Aidan Hamilton, 18, and Robert Strang, 20, were discovered in separate locations earlier this week, prompting an urgent investigation by narcotics detectives. While authorities have not yet determined the official cause of death for either student, packaged kratom was recovered during the investigations. Tannehill stressed that autopsy and toxicology results are pending and crucial for determining if kratom or any other substance played a role in their deaths.

She stated that these deaths should serve as a critical reminder about the dangers of substances sometimes sold in local shops. "To take kratom is really rolling the dice on death," Tannehill told Fox News. "That sounds dramatic, but it's the truth. And so our challenge right now is to make our young people understand the dangers of these drugs."

Tannehill revealed that Oxford officials have been concerned about kratom for years. The city board passed an ordinance seven years ago prohibiting its sale in gas stations within the community after the police chief identified it as dangerous in 2019. "We are always trying to find the bad actors in our community that are choosing to sell these things to kids," she added.

These warnings come as police conducted a raid on a smoke shop near the Ole Miss campus, arresting two employees, Yahya Mohamed Mosleh, 51, and Islam Mohamed, 18, on charges of possession of Schedule I drugs with intent to distribute. Agents reportedly seized over 500 units of kratom, along with THC cartridges, gummies, and other suspected drugs. The business owner, Amer Alowdi, 40, had previously been indicted for drug trafficking and has since left the country. Authorities have not directly linked these arrests or the smoke shop to the deaths of Hamilton and Strang.

Kratom, derived from a Southeast Asian tree, is known to have stimulant-like effects at lower doses and opioid-like effects at higher doses. It is often marketed for energy, pain relief, or to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Hamilton, a freshman from Colorado, was found deceased inside Stewart Hall on campus. Strang, a junior from Georgia, was discovered at an off-campus residence. The close-knit college community is mourning the loss of both young men, with Tannehill expressing her condolences to their families and friends.

Tannehill sought to reassure students and parents that Oxford remains a safe town, stating that substance abuse and dangerous drugs are issues confronting college communities nationwide. "The issues we're dealing with right now are issues that every college campus across the nation is dealing with. It's not unique to Oxford," she said. "Unfortunately, the spotlight is on Oxford now because of these two tragic deaths, and if that spotlight can help us save other kids then, you know, that is my prayer."

She urged students to look out for one another and encouraged them to know that the community is rallying around them. Tannehill also conveyed a message to those involved in illegally supplying drugs, stating, "To the bad actors in our community, know that we are looking for you every single day, that we are not going to leave any stone unturned to make sure that we protect our community."