OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI — Two University of Mississippi students died in separate incidents on Monday, September 21, 2026, prompting investigations by local law enforcement. The university identified the students on September 24 after their families gave permission for their names to be released.
The students were Aidan Hamilton, 18, a freshman from Englewood, Colorado, and Robert Strang, 20, a junior from Atlanta, Georgia. Hamilton was found unresponsive at Stewart Hall, a campus residence hall, while Strang was found at an off-campus residence on Van Buren Avenue.
Two separate investigations
The Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit is investigating the deaths with local and university law enforcement agencies. Investigators have said there is currently no evidence connecting the two cases. The official causes of death have not been determined, and toxicology results were still pending as of September 24.
Packaged kratom purchased from a retail store was found during both investigations. Authorities have not established that kratom or another substance caused or contributed to either death. Officials have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigations continue.
Families and campus community mourn
The University of Mississippi said both families have requested privacy as they grieve. University officials also encouraged students seeking support to use campus resources, including the University Counseling Center and UMatter: Student Support & Advocacy.
Robert Strang was a member of Phi Delta Theta’s Mississippi Alpha chapter. The fraternity said it was deeply saddened by his death and extended condolences to his family, friends and the Ole Miss community.
The circumstances surrounding both deaths remain under investigation. Authorities have not publicly confirmed a cause or manner of death.