Two University of Mississippi students died on 21 September, one on campus and one in Oxford, prompting investigations and widespread speculation about a possible kratom-related overdose. Police found packaged kratom bought from a nearby shop in both investigations, but have not established that it caused either death or that the cases were connected.

Authorities warned people to avoid kratom and other unprescribed substances while investigations continue, and urged the public not to spread unverified claims about additional overdoses. Kratom, a Southeast Asian plant sold in products including pills and teas, can have stimulant effects at low doses and sedative effects at higher doses; reported risks include addiction, psychosis, seizures and liver toxicity.