A tragic and unsettling story is unfolding at Delta State University in Mississippi, where a Black student named Demartravion “Trey” Reed was found hanging from a tree on campus. While local authorities have quickly ruled Reed’s death a suicide, his family is demanding answers and seeking an independent investigation.

Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, known for his social justice activism, has now stepped in to support Reed’s grieving family. Through his “Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative,” Kaepernick will cover the costs of an independent autopsy to uncover the truth behind Reed’s death.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Reed’s family, emphasized the deep historical significance of a Black student found hanging from a tree. “Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths,” Crump stated.

The family’s attorney, Vaness J. Jones, has been clear about their intentions: “We will seek answers independently from Delta State University and from the coroner’s office because we need answers as to what happened to Trey Reed”.

Kaepernick, who became nationally recognized for kneeling during the national anthem to protest social injustice and police brutality, continues to use his platform to support marginalized communities. Since being effectively removed from the NFL in 2017, he has remained committed to advocating for racial justice and supporting families seeking truth in cases of potential racial violence.

The independent autopsy represents a crucial step for Reed’s family in understanding the circumstances of his death. By challenging the initial ruling and demanding a thorough investigation, they hope to ensure transparency and potentially prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As this story develops, it underscores the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in cases involving Black individuals, highlighting the importance of independent investigations and community support.