Trey Reed Death Case: Who is Ben Crump?

On Monday, September 15, 2025, a tragic case shook Delta State University in Mississippi. Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old student, was found hanging from a tree near the campus pickleball courts. While police and university officials called the death a suicide, Reed’s family strongly disagrees. They believe there are unanswered questions and have demanded an independent investigation.

Who Was Trey Reed?

Trey Reed was a young Black student at Delta State University. His sudden death has left the campus community in shock. Students and community members have gathered to honor him and demand answers about what really happened.

Why Did the Family Hire Ben Crump?

The Reed family has hired Ben Crump, a well-known civil rights lawyer. Crump is famous for representing families in major national cases, including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Trayvon Martin. He has earned the nickname “Black America’s Attorney General” for his role in fighting racial injustice.

Crump announced that he will lead a transparent and independent investigation into Trey Reed’s death. He also promised to work closely with civil rights groups and the Reed family to seek justice.

Who Is Ben Crump?

Ben Crump was born on October 10, 1969. He studied at Florida State University and earned his law degree from the FSU College of Law. He later became the first African American to chair the school’s Board of Directors.

For decades, he has taken on high-profile cases involving police brutality, racial discrimination, and wrongful death. Some of his biggest cases include:

• George Floyd – helped the family win a $27 million settlement.

• Breonna Taylor – represented the family in a $12 million settlement.

• Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, and Ahmaud Arbery – all cases that sparked national protests.

Apart from law, Crump also writes books, appears in documentaries, and speaks on racial justice reforms. He is a past president of the National Civil Rights Trial Lawyers Association and has won awards like the NAACP Thurgood Marshall Award.

The Dispute Over Trey Reed’s Death

Authorities claim there was no evidence of foul play. But the Reed family does not accept that conclusion. They say officials have not been clear in their communication. The family has also requested an independent autopsy.

Crump’s statement stressed that the community cannot accept “vague conclusions” when so many questions remain. He called for full transparency from law enforcement and university officials.

What Happens Next?

The case has sparked public debate across Mississippi and beyond. Civil rights leaders and student organizations are supporting the Reed family’s call for justice. With Ben Crump now involved, the case could gain national attention.