Officials now stress that the deaths of two University of Mississippi students are being investigated separately, with no confirmed link to kratom or any other substance. Both students were found at separate locations, and authorities have urged the public not to speculate while investigations continue.

Packaged kratom bought from a retail shop was recovered in both cases, but Lafayette County Metro Narcotics said there is no evidence yet that it contributed to either death. The university confirmed the two fatalities, warned about unverified reports circulating online and said the causes remain under investigation.