The Whitsdom Press

Tag: black men

  • Two Men Found Hanging in Mississippi

    On September 15, 2025, two men were discovered hanging from trees in separate parts of Mississippi—one on a college campus in Cleveland, the other in the woods near Vicksburg. Although authorities say the cases are not connected, the timing and manner of the deaths have sparked deep concern about race, history, and mental health in the state.

    What Happened in Cleveland 🌳

    Early Monday morning around 7:05 a.m., Demartravion “Trey” Reed, a 21-year-old Black student from Grenada, Mississippi, was found hanging from a tree near the pickleball courts at Delta State University in Cleveland.

    Campus police and the Bolivar County Coroner’s Office confirmed there were no signs of physical assault—no cuts, bruises, broken bones, or injuries consistent with an attack. Officials have not yet ruled on cause or manner of death, and the body was sent to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for a full autopsy.

    Especially online, the public has reacted strongly. Some have alleged Reed was attacked or lynched—a notion countered by officials citing absence of trauma. But phrases like “Black people don’t lynch themselves” have been widely shared, reflecting skepticism that Reed’s death was suicide, especially given Mississippi’s legacy of racial violence. Reed’s father also posted online that his son had started fearing for his life before he died, deeply unsettling many who saw a lack of clarity from authorities

    Cousin of Trey Reed speaks, Cleveland MS Chief of Police speaks

    What Happened in Vicksburg 🌲

    Just hours later, around 1:30 p.m. near Ameristar Casino in Vicksburg, the body of Cory Zukatis (also spelled “Zutakis”), a white man in his mid-30s and reported to be homeless, was found hanging in a wooded area.

    The Warren County Coroner said Zukatis had a history of drug use and homelessness, but authorities made no conclusions on whether the death was suicide or homicide. His body was also sent to the state crime lab for autopsy. Vicksburg police confirmed there is no link between this death and Reed’s case.

    Online misinformation spread quickly—some claimed Zukatis was Black, or connected to broader conspiracies—but officials clarified these claims were false.

    Be sure to subscribe to Mya Lamis on Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@ElevateWithMya

    A Painful Coincidence đź’”

    It is very sad that both of these deaths happened on the same day, with both men found in a similar way. This has brought up painful memories of Mississippi’s history of lynching, a form of racial violence used against Black Americans. Many people, especially online, have found it hard to believe that both deaths were suicides, given this history.

    IN MY PERSONAL OPINION, THESE WERE NOT SUICIDES! THESE WERE MURDERS IN MISSISSIPPI! NO FOUL PLAY-NO SUCH THING! AND WE ALL KNOW THESE POLICE DEPARTMENTS IN THESE SMALL MISSISSIPPI TOWNS ARE CORRUPT!

  • DaBaby Launches ‘DaBaby Cares’ for Mental Health Awareness

    This September, during Suicide Prevention Month, rapper DaBaby has taken a step beyond music. He has launched a mental health platform called “DaBaby Cares.” The initiative is close to his heart. It honors his late brother, Glenn Johnson, who tragically lost his life to suicide in 2020. DaBaby’s mission is to make sure others don’t suffer in silence like his brother did.

    What is DaBaby Cares?

    “DaBaby Cares” is more than just a website. It’s a support system designed to help people who are struggling with their mental health. The platform offers resources, guidance, and a safe space for people to talk about their feelings. It’s aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues. This is particularly important among young people who might feel like they have nowhere to turn.

    Why is Mental Health Important?

    Mental health is about how we think, feel, and act. It affects everything we do, from how we handle stress to how we make choices and interact with others. Unfortunately, mental health issues are often overlooked, especially among young people. Many might feel embarrassed or scared to talk about their struggles, leading to feelings of isolation and hopelessness. This is why programs like “DaBaby Cares” are so important. They remind us that it’s okay to ask for help. No one has to go through tough times alone.

    DaBaby with his late brother Glenn

    A Personal Mission

    DaBaby, whose real name is Jonathan Kirk, has been open about the impact his brother’s death had on him. His brother’s passing was a wake-up call, showing him how crucial it is to address mental health openly. By launching “DaBaby Cares,” DaBaby wants to break the stigma around mental health. He wants to encourage others to seek help when they need it.

    What Can You Do?

    If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, it’s important to remember that help is available. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or a professional, reaching out is the first step toward feeling better. Programs like “DaBaby Cares” are there to offer support and resources for anyone who needs them.

    DaBaby’s new platform is a powerful reminder. We should take care of our mental health just like we do our physical health. By starting the conversation, DaBaby is helping to ensure that no one else has to feel alone in their struggles.

    Final Thoughts

    Mental health is a serious issue, especially among young people. DaBaby’s “DaBaby Cares” is a valuable resource that shows it’s okay to seek help and talk about your feelings. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. So, if you or someone you know is going through a tough time, don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is always available, and no one has to face their struggles alone.