Tony Smith

🚨BREAKING🚨 Directly from the Mayor of Oxford, Mississippi concerning rumors circulating on social media about a spike in drug related deaths over the weekend at Ole Miss. Confirms 2 deaths and also confirms that Kratom was found at each scene. From mayor Official statement To Our Community: We are aware of the significant amount of concern, speculation, and misinformation circulating regarding the deaths of two college-aged individuals yesterday. First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, classmates, and loved ones affected by these tragic losses. Law enforcement is currently conducting two separate death investigations. At this time, we have no confirmed evidence indicating that the two deaths are connected. However, packaged Kratom sold from a retail store was found during both investigations. Out of an abundance of caution, we encourage everyone to avoid kratom and any other medication or substance that was not prescribed to you or obtained from a trusted, regulated source. We do not have confirmed information indicating that kratom or any other substance was a contributing factor in either death. We ask the public to avoid speculation regarding the circumstances or cause of either death while these investigations remain ongoing. Local, state, and federal partners are working collaboratively to gather the facts and provide answers as quickly and responsibly as possible. We are also working closely with the families involved and ask that their privacy be respected during an incredibly difficult time. As a general community safety resource, free Narcan is available through vending machines on campus and at the downtown parking garage within the City of Oxford. Narcan can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and is available to members of the community at no charge. We understand that uncertainty can create fear and rumors. We ask our community to rely on information released through official sources as these investigations continue. If information develops that presents a confirmed threat to public safety, we will communicate that information promptly. Our priority remains supporting these families, determining the facts, and protecting our community. #OleMiss #Mississippi #Kratom #Overdose #OxfordMs