OXFORD, Miss. — Oxford police are warning residents across North Mississippi — including right here in Tippah County — about the serious and potentially deadly dangers of synthetic kratom products after officers responded to a suspected overdose early Thursday morning that nearly claimed the life of a 22-year-old.
Officers responded around 5 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, to a residence on Sweetgum Lane after the individual was found unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel were able to revive the individual, who was alert and oriented when transported by ambulance for further medical care. The individual is expected to be OK.
The individual is not a student, police said, and this incident is not student-related.
During the investigation, officers learned that the individual had synthetic kratom products in their possession. Based on statements provided to investigators, there is currently no indication that the products were purchased in the Oxford area.
The Oxford Police Department, working with the Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit, is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The department is once again warning the public about the serious and potentially deadly dangers associated with synthetic kratom products. Synthetic and manufactured kratom products can contain powerful and unpredictable substances.
Police said this incident is not connected to the recent death investigations ongoing in the Oxford community.
The department also recognized the emergency medical personnel who responded to this incident and provided immediate care, saying their quick response and lifesaving actions helped ensure the individual received the medical attention they needed.
The Oxford Police Department encourages anyone experiencing or witnessing a suspected overdose to call 911 immediately.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
