By: Minka Koskinen

September 17, 2025

On Monday, Sept. 15, Demartravion “Trey” Reed, 21, and Cory Zukatis, 36, were found dead, both hanging from trees.

Reed’s body was discovered near the pickleball courts on the campus of Delta State University, where he was enrolled as a student.

Police say no foul play is suspected. Although speculation has circulated online about other injuries to Reed’s body, the coroner’s office has stated that is not the case.

Zukatis’s body was found in a wooded area behind Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg, about an hour from where Reed was discovered. Authorities report that Zukatis was homeless.

Zukatis was found at approximately 1:30 p.m., while Reed was discovered earlier that morning at 7:05 a.m.

Delta State University Police Chief Michael L. Peeler said during a news conference that Reed died by suicide. Police have not released information regarding the cause of death for Zukatis.

Authorities say they do not believe the deaths are connected.