Crime

Oxford police investigate suspected overdose involving synthetic kratom products

The Oxford Police Department is investigating a suspected overdose involving a 22-year-old person at a residence on Sweetgum Lane, after officers responded around 5 a.m. Thursday when the person was found unresponsive.

Emergency medical personnel revived the person, who was alert and oriented when transported by ambulance for further medical care. The person is expected to be OK, according to the department.

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The person is not a student, and police said the incident is not student-related. Investigators learned the person had synthetic kratom products in their possession. Based on statements provided to investigators, there is currently no indication the products were purchased in the Oxford area.

The Oxford Police Department is continuing the investigation with the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit. Police said the incident is not connected to recent death investigations ongoing in the community.

The department warned that synthetic and manufactured kratom products can contain powerful and unpredictable substances and pose serious, potentially deadly dangers. It also recognized the emergency medical personnel who responded and provided immediate care.

Police encouraged anyone experiencing or witnessing a suspected overdose to call 911 immediately.

Source: Lafayette County Sheriff's Office.

Jon Myers

Jon Ross Myers founded Mississippi News Group in 2013. Before founding the organization, he worked at The Daily Mississippian, The Marion Salute and The Southern Sentinel. A Mississippi journalist and writer based in Ripley, he received second place in poetry in the 2025 William Faulkner Literary Competition for "The Garden."