Lafayette County Authorities Warn Against Kratom Use After Student Deaths
Authorities in Lafayette County, Mississippi, have issued a warning against using kratom, an herbal extract, following the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. While the exact cause of death has not been confirmed, packaged kratom was found in investigations…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, September 23, 2026 —
LAFAYETTE COUNTY, MISS. – Local authorities in Lafayette County have issued a public warning urging residents to refrain from using kratom, an herbal substance derived from the leaves of a coffee tree native to Southeast Asia. The advisory follows the recent deaths of two University of Mississippi students.
The exact cause of death for both students has not yet been officially confirmed by authorities. However, investigations into their deaths revealed that packaged kratom was present in connection with each case.
In response to these findings, law enforcement officials in Lafayette County are advising the public to avoid the use of kratom. The warning also extends to cautioning individuals against the use of any unprescribed medications. The specific brand or source of the kratom found has not been disclosed.
Kratom has been a subject of debate and regulatory scrutiny in various regions due to its psychoactive properties and potential health risks. While proponents claim it can offer pain relief and mood enhancement, health organizations and law enforcement agencies have raised concerns about its safety, particularly when used without medical supervision or when contaminated with other substances.
The University of Mississippi has not released official statements regarding the incidents beyond acknowledging the deaths of its students. The Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, which is involved in the ongoing investigations, has not provided further details on the circumstances surrounding the students’ passing or the specific amount of kratom found.
The warning serves as a public health alert aimed at preventing further incidents. Officials emphasize the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for any health concerns and avoiding the consumption of unregulated substances.
Details regarding the timeline of the events, the students’ identities, or the precise findings of the investigations remain undisclosed. Authorities have stated that more information will be released as it becomes available and as investigations progress.
Story summarized from the original created by Cindy Von Quednow, CNN on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
