Court Reveals Death Causes of Ole Miss Students in Oxford Case

Two University of Mississippi students died from separate causes linked to substance use, according to testimony in an Oxford federal court hearing involving two men accused of selling narcotics. Aidan Hamilton, 18, and Robert Strang, 20, died on September 21 in Oxford, Mississippi.

According to defense attorneys, one student died after combined use of multiple substances, including cough syrup, while the other died from inhalation asphyxiation. Court records cited by prosecutors said toxicology results showed both victims had Mitrogynine, MGM-15 and MGPI in their systems.

Investigators said Hamilton and Strang obtained pills before their deaths. According to testimony from Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit agent Caleb Easter, bank records showed purchases of $87.18 and $43.59 at Puffs Vape on September 20.

Investigators used a confidential informant to examine alleged sales of illegal substances at the Oxford store. Records show the informant asked whether the store sold 7-OH Kratom-based pills.

"7-OH Kratom-based pills" according to police records.

The investigation records said a store clerk acknowledged selling the products and warned the informant about their risks.

"Be careful taking the pills, because people are dying from them" according to police records.

Oxford police later executed a search warrant at the store, recovering 500 units of kratom and kratom-like products, along with other suspected THC items.

"THC cartridges, gummies, pre-rolls, and other suspected THC substances" according to the search warrant records.

Detectives also found packaging matching a product located near Hamilton, according to court records. Prosecutors argued the defendants knew the dangers connected to the substances they allegedly sold.

"This case comes from several tragic overdose cases of students here in Oxford... evidence supports the detention… victims died of conditions consistent to overdoses" prosecutors said in court.

Federal Judge ruled Yahya Mosleh would remain in custody, citing flight risk concerns and ties to another country. His son, Islam Mosleh, received a $20,000 unsecured bond with conditions including monitoring.

Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann called for broader restrictions on kratom products after the deaths. He wrote that officials should respond when substances present serious risks.

"When we know a substance carries serious risks, we have a responsibility to act," said Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann.

Hosemann also referenced concerns about young people using substances offered by peers and urged them to reject pressure.

"Why?" asked Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann.

He described peer pressure as a factor that can influence decisions involving pills and other substances.

"Just try this one pill" said Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann.

Hosemann continued his warning by emphasizing refusal of substances he considers dangerous.

"NO" said Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann.

He repeated the message in his opinion column published by the Press Register.

"NO" said Lt. Governor Delbert Hosemann.