Two Arrested in Mississippi Drug Bust Following Deaths of University of Mississippi Students
Authorities are investigating the deaths of two students, Aidan Hamilton and Robert Strang, and have arrested two individuals in connection with a drug bust near the University of Mississippi campus.
Oxford, Mississippi – Two employees of a smoke shop located one mile from the University of Mississippi campus have been arrested on drug charges. The arrests followed the deaths of two university students, Aidan Hamilton, 18, and Robert Strang, 20, earlier this week.
Oxford Police reported that Yahya Mohamed Mosleh, 51, and Islam Mohamed, 18, were booked for possession of Schedule 1 drugs with intent to distribute. During the raid, agents seized over 500 units of kratom, as well as THC cartridges, gummies, and other suspected substances. The business owner, Amer Alowdi, 40, has a prior indictment for drug trafficking and has reportedly left the country.
"This remains an active investigation. Additional information will be released when appropriate," the Oxford Police Department stated.
Friends identified the deceased students to The Daily Mississippian. Hamilton was a freshman from Colorado, and Strang was a junior from Georgia. Law enforcement responded to Stewart Hall where CPR was attempted on Hamilton. Strang was found deceased at an off-campus house on Van Buren Avenue.
In statements, Strang's family expressed their heartbreak over the loss and gratitude for the outpouring of support. Hamilton's mother had recently posted about him becoming an "empty nester" as he began his college journey.
Dr. Shawnboda Mead, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, confirmed the students' deaths. She also addressed rumors circulating on social media, urging the community against speculation on unconfirmed information.
The Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit indicated that "packaged kratom" was discovered during both death investigations. Kratom, an herbal extract, can act as a stimulant or, in larger doses, an opioid. It is currently unregulated.
Authorities have cautioned against the ingestion of kratom or any substances not prescribed by a medical professional. Local, state, and federal agencies are collaborating to determine the facts surrounding the students' deaths.
"We are also working closely with the families involved and ask that their privacy be respected during an incredibly difficult time," the agency said. The university reminded the community of the availability of Narcan, an overdose reversal medication, through vending machines on campus.