Colin Kaepernick Steps In With Autopsy Support
Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick is once again putting his money where his mouth is, stepping up to cover the cost of an independent autopsy for Delta State University (DSU) student Demartravion “Trey” Reed. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump broke the news on Friday, stressing that the family deserves full clarity about what really happened.
According to Crump, the family will move forward with the second autopsy once the state medical examiner releases Reed’s body. The decision comes after confusion and frustration sparked by official reports. On Sept. 17, the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Reed’s death a suicide by hanging, though final toxicology results could take up to four weeks.
As previously reported by Hollywood Unlocked, Reed’s body was discovered on Sept. 15 around 7 a.m. near the pickleball courts on campus. The discovery was so shocking that DSU canceled classes for the day, leaving students and faculty shaken by the sudden loss.
Delta State Officials Confirm Discovery of Trey Reed
Authorities identified the victim as 21-year-old Trey Reed of Grenada, Mississippi. DSU Police Chief Mike Peeler confirmed there was “no indication of foul play.” The Bolivar County Coroner’s Office backed this up, stating in a release that an initial exam showed no signs Reed had been assaulted. They also noted that a “thorough death investigation” was underway.
Even with those statements, Reed’s family isn’t satisfied. According to Crump, the family has been left with too many questions and conflicting details. They believe an independent autopsy is necessary to ensure that all possible angles are explored.Crump stressed, “Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths. Peace will come only by getting to the truth. We thank Colin Kaepernick for supporting this grieving family and the cause of justice and truth.”
Colin Kaepernick’s Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative
The funding for the second autopsy comes from the Colin Kaepernick “Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative.” This program was launched to help families secure independent autopsies in cases where there are questions or concerns about state-issued results.
Kaepernick’s initiative has become a critical lifeline for families who can’t afford private medical reviews but want accountability. By stepping in, the former quarterback is making sure that Trey Reed’s family isn’t left in the dark.
Community Reactions to Trey Reed’s Death
The Delta State community is still reeling. Students gathered for candlelight vigils, while social media continues to buzz with messages demanding truth and transparency. Many are praising Kaepernick for his direct support, calling his actions “proof that he’s still fighting for justice off the field.”
Local activists also noted that Reed’s death touches a deeper wound in Mississippi’s history, where countless Black men have been victims of racial violence. While authorities insist there’s no sign of foul play, skepticism remains heavy within the community.
Why This Case Matters Beyond Delta State
Trey Reed’s death is not just about one family’s grief. It’s about systemic accountability. Too many times, Black families have been left with more questions than answers when tragedy strikes.
That’s why Kaepernick’s move resonates on a national scale.This is also why Ben Crump is involved. Known for representing families in high-profile civil rights cases, Crump has been vocal about the need for transparency whenever young Black men are found dead under questionable circumstances.
With the independent autopsy, Reed’s family hopes to close the gap between official reports and community doubts.
