We are saddened by the deaths of two University of Mississippi students, and our thoughts are with their families and friends. As an organization that advocates for responsible adult access to plant based products such as kratom and 7-OH, we feel it is important to not remain silent on this widely reported story. While packaged kratom was found during both investigations, and rumors have been flying about the cause of these tragic deaths, investigators say they have no confirmed information that kratom or any other substance contributed to either death. In fact, they asked the public “to avoid speculation regarding the circumstances or cause of either death while these investigations remain ongoing.”
Headlines across the country are placing kratom alongside these deaths before investigators have established a connection. We have seen how damaging that can be. After former NBA player Brandon Clarke’s tragic death, coverage raised questions about whether his earlier kratom arrest was relevant. Months later, the Los Angeles County medical examiner announced that the cause of death was the “effects of heroin and cocaine.”
Early headlines can remain online and continue to shape search and AI results long after investigators establish the facts. We urge reporters to make clear what is known, what remains unconfirmed and what investigators ultimately determine. These families deserve care and accuracy, not speculation and fear posting.
