Kratom Warning After Student Deaths

Authorities have issued a warning about the herbal extract kratom, which was reportedly found during investigations into the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. The students, one on and one off campus in Oxford, were discovered deceased earlier this week. While no definitive connection has been established, law enforcement noted the presence of packaged kratom in both cases.

This situation has prompted officials to advise the public against using any medication or substance not prescribed or obtained from a regulated source. The university expressed its condolences, acknowledging unverified social media information. Kratom, known for its opioid- and stimulant-like effects, has seen a substantial rise in poisoning reports nationally.

Research indicates a significant increase in kratom poisoning calls, exceeding 1,200% between 2015 and 2025. The psychoactive herb is not federally regulated in the U.S. and carries risks of addiction and poisoning. Signs can range from vomiting and seizures to hallucinations and liver damage, with a notable increase in deaths involving kratom, sometimes in combination with other substances.