The University of Mississippi community is mourning the unexpected deaths of 18-year-old Aidan Hamilton of Englewood, Colorado, and 20-year-old Robert Strang of Atlanta, two students who died on September 21, 2026.
University officials identified the students on Thursday as the campus community continued to grieve. Hamilton was a freshman, while Strang was a junior. They were found in separate locations in Oxford, Mississippi, and authorities have said there is currently no evidence connecting the two deaths.
Aidan Hamilton and Robert Strang Remembered
Hamilton was found unresponsive at Stewart Hall on the Ole Miss campus after first responders were called shortly after 1:30 p.m. Monday. CPR efforts were attempted, but he later died.
Strang was found deceased at an off-campus location. His family released a statement expressing deep grief and gratitude for the support they have received, while asking for privacy and compassion as they process his death.
The circumstances surrounding both deaths remain under investigation. Toxicology results were not yet available as of September 24, and officials have not established an official cause of death for either student.
Kratom Mentioned in Investigation
Lafayette County Metro Narcotics reported that packaged, store-bought kratom was found during investigations at both locations. However, investigators have emphasized that there is no confirmed evidence that kratom caused either death. Whether any other substances were involved also remains under investigation.
The University of Mississippi has offered condolences to the families, friends and classmates of both students. Phi Delta Theta also publicly mourned Robert Strang, who was a member of the fraternity’s Mississippi Alpha Chapter.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim 1 | Aidan Hamilton |
| Age | 18 |
| Hometown | Englewood, Colorado |
| Ole Miss status | Freshman |
| Victim 2 | Robert Strang |
| Age | 20 |
| Hometown | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Ole Miss status | Junior |
| Date of deaths | September 21, 2026 |
| Locations | Hamilton on campus; Strang off campus |
| Official causes | Not yet determined |
| Toxicology | Results not yet available |
| Kratom | Found at both locations, but no confirmed link to either death |
| Investigation | Ongoing |
Accuracy note: The presence of kratom at both locations should not be presented as proof of overdose or as the cause of either student’s death. Authorities have not established that connection.