Two Ole Miss students named as 500 units of kratom seized and toxicology results expected to trigger anti-fentanyl law

From the Newshound archive · first published 24 September 2026 · last updated 26 September 2026.

Robert Strang, 20, from Atlanta, and Aidan Hamilton, 18, a Colorado freshman, have been named — with their families' consent — as the two University of Mississippi students whose deaths this week are being treated as suspicious. Police arrested two people near campus after seizing more than 500 units of kratom, and toxicology reports are due shortly; an official has cautioned that the findings could activate the state's anti-fentanyl law.

Students say the deaths and reports of druggings have left people 'scared to leave' dorms, with bars and Greek life tightening their rules.

Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell confirmed foul play has not been ruled out pending autopsy results and witness statements.

Aidan Hamilton's family said he was 'a bright, wonderful young man who was taken too soon' and asked for privacy.