Two Ole Miss Students Found Dead; Kratom Under Investigation

Investigators at the University of Mississippi are examining whether the herbal supplement kratom contributed to the deaths of two students who were found dead on Monday.

Robert Strang, a 20-year-old junior from Atlanta, and Aidan Hamilton, an 18-year-old student, were discovered at separate locations. Authorities have not said whether the two deaths are connected, and both investigations remain ongoing.

Strang was a graduate of North Atlanta High School. Outside the school, parents told WSB-TV Channel 2 they were saddened by the news. "It's heartbreaking that someone has lost their son," one parent said.

Students on the Oxford, Mississippi campus are also struggling with the loss. "We didn't think to come back to such sad news of losing two classmates," said student Raven Tunstall. "College is supposed to be where we grow and gain new experiences. It's not supposed to be where our lives end."

Authorities said a package of retail kratom purchased from a convenience store was found at both scenes, and investigators are now focusing on whether the substance played a role in either death.

Kratom is a plant-based substance sold in some convenience stores, smoke shops and gas stations. Critics have raised concerns about its potential health risks, particularly with concentrated or synthetic products.

The substance has been banned by some state and local governments, including the city of Oxford, Mississippi, where Ole Miss is located.

"It makes me concerned because I know kids can get kratom at gas stations, and I don't think they are aware of the dangers," one parent said.

Strang's family released a statement expressing their grief. "We are heartbroken by the loss of our son Robert and are trying to process this unimaginable loss," the family said. "We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers and support by so many beloved friends and family. Their kindness has meant more to our family than we can ever express."

Investigators say toxicology tests will be critical in determining whether kratom was a contributing factor in either student's death. Those results are expected to take several weeks.

Reporting by WSB-TV. Read the original report: Ole Miss students found dead; kratom under investigation.