Colin Kaepernick, the former NFL quarterback, is funding an independent autopsy for Demartravion ‘Trey’ Reed, a 21-year-old Delta State University student found dead hanging from a tree in Mississippi. The family and legal representative, Ben Crump, have expressed dissatisfaction with the initial findings of the state’s coroner and state examiner who ruled the death a suicide. This has led to calls for a more comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of Reed’s death, prompting Kaepernick to support an independent autopsy through his Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative.
Despite early accounts suggesting foul play, police have stated that no foul play is suspected, and the coroner found no injuries consistent with an assault. However, Crump has emphasized that the family is receiving conflicting accounts and incomplete information about the situation, highlighting their need for more transparency. The case has also drawn attention from Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., who has called for a federal investigation, citing the state’s historical context of racial violence and lynching against African Americans.
Kaepernick’s involvement in the case has brought renewed attention to the broader issues of racial justice and accountability. His support for the independent autopsy reflects a commitment to seeking the truth, which he believes is essential for the community. This action aligns with his ongoing advocacy for civil rights, particularly after his well-known protests during the NFL season. Meanwhile, the case has sparked discussions about the potential implications of such incidents on the broader social fabric and the necessity for continued efforts to address systemic issues.