AGP Executive Report

Ole Miss & Oxford drug crackdown: Two smoke shop employees were arrested after a raid near the University of Mississippi, with police seizing more than 500 units of kratom plus THC cartridges and other suspected narcotics; the arrests come days after two Ole Miss students were found dead in separate incidents where packaged kratom was found. Jackson-area homicide case update: A Mississippi detective testified that Tasia Fortune fought hard before she was killed in an apparent drug dispute, and that her hanging was staged; police have charged multiple suspects, including a third murder charge announced after the testimony. Mississippi State football: Kamario Taylor threw three TD passes as No. 24 Mississippi State beat No. 19 Missouri 31-24 in Starkville, with a late fourth-quarter surge sealing the win. Mid-South drought: Drought conditions are worsening across parts of Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi as harvest season ramps up, threatening yields for farmers. Weather watch: A nor’easter is battering the Northeast with flooding, outages, and at least one death, with dangerous conditions expected to linger.

Oxford/UM Investigation: Two smoke shop employees were arrested after a raid near the University of Mississippi that turned up more than 500 units of packaged kratom plus THC cartridges and gummies; police say the suspects are charged with possessing schedule I drugs with intent to distribute, though investigators have not confirmed any direct link to the deaths of Ole Miss students Aidan Hamilton and Robert Strang. Public Safety Warning: Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill urged residents to avoid kratom after the investigation, calling it “rolling the dice on death” while toxicology results are still pending. Jackson Court Update: In the Tasia Fortune case, a detective testified the hanging appeared “staged,” saying Fortune was killed in a drug dispute before her body was placed in a tree; two men face murder charges and a third suspect turned himself in. College Football (SEC): Alabama hosts South Carolina in a Week 4 matchup at Bryant-Denny, with both teams entering after recent conference results. Weather/Community: Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society plans its annual celebration and meeting Oct. 3 at a nature preserve near Bemidji.

Kratom crackdown in Oxford: Oxford police say more than 500 units of kratom were found during a search of a nearby business, leading to arrests tied to alleged illegal drug sales—days after two Ole Miss students were found dead with kratom recovered at both scenes. Jackson court case: In the Tasia Fortune case, a detective testified the hanging was “staged,” saying the motive appears to be a drug dispute; the case continues as prosecutors pursue charges against a first defendant. Local politics: Lowndes County Supervisor Trip Hairston officially announced he’ll run for the state Senate seat in 2027, setting up a new race after Sen. Chuck Younger’s move to transportation commissioner. Public safety training: Meridian-area officers completed a crisis intervention course, aiming to better handle mental health emergencies without defaulting to jail. Health and business: Ochsner Rush Neurology welcomed Meridian-area Dr. Erin Britt to expand specialized neurological care across east Mississippi and west Alabama. Community & culture: Starkville businesses are gearing up for big crowds around Mississippi State’s home opener, with downtown events planned before and after the game.

Jackson Justice Update: A detective testified that the Aug. 3 hanging death of Tasia Fortune was “staged” after she was killed in a drug dispute, with police saying the motive appears tied to drugs and that two men are charged while a third suspect is sought. Public Safety & Training: A dozen East Mississippi officers finished a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team course in Meridian, learning how to de-escalate mental health emergencies and connect people to treatment instead of jail. Local Business: Merchants & Marine Bancorp says its bank subsidiary will rename to TownBridge Bank on Sept. 28, keeping local brand names and leadership. Jackson Weekend Watch: Big crowds for the Mississippi Book Festival and the Jackson State–Southern football game are expected to bring traffic and parking headaches, with shuttles and lane restrictions urged. Health & Drugs: Officials are warning about cychlorphine, a synthetic opioid described as far more potent than fentanyl, after recent college deaths. Community & Culture: The Magnolia State Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show returns to Ocean Springs this weekend, with hands-on activities for kids.

Ole Miss & Kratom Watch: Mississippi authorities urged people to avoid kratom after two University of Mississippi students died, even as officials said there’s no confirmed link yet; toxicology reports are being expedited. Local History in Starkville: A storm-damaged building that once housed Dr. Douglas L. Conner’s first office and a historic Black barber shop collapsed, raising questions about preservation and safety. Politics & Voting Access: Mississippi Democrats warned of a surge in voter purges tied to inactivity rules and address-mismatch flags ahead of the Oct. 5 registration deadline. State Government & Oversight: A Jackson-area political fight is heating up over data center expansion, with critics calling for more transparency on water and power use. Housing & Cost Relief: A new federal proposal would offer first-time homebuyers up to $50,000 for down payments. Community Health: Phi Theta Kappa at Surry Community College is hosting a mental health awareness fair with free resources and coping-skills activities. Sports (Mississippi): Mississippi State is aiming for a world record cowbell moment as it hosts Missouri, while Southern prepares for its rivalry matchup at Jackson State.

Ole Miss & Kratom Watch: Ole Miss identified two students found dead Monday—Aidan Hamilton (18, Englewood, Colorado) and Robert Strang (20, Atlanta)—as investigators continue separate probes after packaged kratom was found at both scenes; officials stress there’s no confirmed link to the deaths. Local Justice: Jackson police arrested a second suspect, Earnest Lloyd Jr., in the hanging death of Tasia Fortune, and issued a warrant for a third person; Fortune’s mother says she’s relieved but still wants answers. Nolan Wells Case: Civil rights attorney Ben Crump says Wells’ phone data was deleted after his death and the state autopsy found no water in his lungs, after a grand jury declined charges. State Politics: Mississippi’s Senate race heads into absentee voting, with candidates trading claims on healthcare costs and economic plans. Business & Jobs: SubSea Craft plans a $6M+ expansion in Hancock County to produce autonomous boats, targeting 56 jobs by 2028. Community Health: Mississippi organizations marked National Save a Life Day with Narcan and overdose-prevention outreach. Tourism: Mississippi reported a 2025 tourism record: 45.5 million visitors and $18.9B in economic impact.

Ole Miss Student Deaths & Kratom Warning: Mississippi health officials are urging residents to avoid counterfeit pills and unregulated products after two University of Mississippi students died in Oxford; packaged kratom was found in both separate investigations, but officials say they have not confirmed kratom (or any link) as the cause. Mississippi Politics: An Independent candidate in Mississippi’s 4th District accuses Rep. Mike Ezell of illegal campaign contributions tied to the Chouest family, while Ezell denies the claims. Data Centers in Mississippi: A new report highlights how Amazon Web Services’ $10 billion data center build near Jackson is boosting local hiring and training, while also raising utility and environmental concerns. Child Custody Law: Louisiana and Mississippi are among states adopting a default “50-50” custody approach in divorce cases, aiming to reduce conflict and formalize shared parenting. National/World: A federal judge ordered the White House to restore access for CNN, MS NOW, and Politico, calling the media ban likely unconstitutional.

Ole Miss & Kratom Watch: Mississippi authorities say packaged kratom was found at both separate death investigations involving two Ole Miss students, but they have not confirmed kratom (or any other substance) caused the deaths; Gov. Tate Reeves urged parents to warn kids about drug dangers while toxicology results are pending. Local Justice: Jackson police arrested a second suspect in the hanging death of Tasia Fortune and issued a warrant for a third; the case has drawn national attention and renewed debate over how such deaths are discussed. State Politics: Scott Colom is pressing for transparency after a grand jury declined to indict in Nolan Wells’ death, while Republican candidates continue lining up for Mississippi’s 2027 governor race. Energy & Environment: Sierra Club’s “Dirty Truth” report says Mississippi Power scored poorly, criticizing plans to add new gas and adding no renewables. Community & Business: Jones College and USM are expanding free journalism training for south Mississippi, and Mid South Livestock-Warren announced new managers after the former Bradley County sale barn closed.

Ole Miss Death Investigation: Oxford police and Lafayette County authorities are probing the deaths of two University of Mississippi students after packaged kratom was found at both scenes. Investigators say the cases appear separate and have not confirmed kratom—or any substance—contributed to either death, with autopsies and toxicology tests being scheduled. Rural Health Funding: Gov. Tate Reeves announced Mississippi’s first round of grants from a federal rural health program, with more than $104 million going out for technology upgrades and telehealth, part of a $1 billion, five-year effort. Workforce Pressure on Growth: A Mississippi Business Alliance tour stop found workforce availability is the top growth limiter for many employers, with leaders pointing to ongoing workforce development efforts. Women’s Leadership Push: Mississippi University for Women is hosting its inaugural Women’s Leadership Symposium to connect students with community and business mentors. College Football Spotlight: Mississippi State QB Kamario Taylor is drawing major praise after a strong start, as the Bulldogs head into a key SEC matchup. Nolan Wells Case: The family of Horn Island teen Nolan Wells is rejecting a Jackson County grand jury’s no-true-bill finding and is calling for continued investigation.

University of Mississippi: Oxford police and campus officials are investigating the deaths of two Ole Miss students found in separate locations after packaged kratom was recovered in both cases; authorities say there’s no confirmed link between the deaths and no confirmation kratom contributed, while toxicology and autopsies are pending. Nolan Wells case: A Mississippi grand jury declined to bring criminal charges in the July 4 death of Nolan Wells, with the report saying the death was consistent with drowning; Wells’ family and Ben Crump’s team are pushing for continued answers after claims about injuries and possible foul play. Elections: Mississippi circuit clerk offices are now taking absentee ballot requests for the Nov. 3 general election, with key deadlines for in-person voting and mail-in ballots. State politics: Sen. Roger Wicker criticized the White House’s invitation to Chinese leader Xi Jinping, urging tougher pressure on China’s policies and human rights. Business/real estate: PlaceMKR announced a $31.85 million acquisition of a five-property retail portfolio, including At Home stores, expanding into Mississippi. Public safety: Mississippi-linked regional wildfire support continues as Arkansas activates an interstate compact and brings in out-of-state firefighting resources.

White House Press Fight: CNN, Mississippi Now and Politico sued after Trump barred them from entering the White House, arguing it violates First Amendment press freedom. Nolan Wells Case: A Jackson County grand jury declined to indict anyone in the death of 18-year-old Nolan Wells, saying the evidence is consistent with drowning and finding no credible proof of foul play or racial motivation. Mississippi Politics/Redistricting: Mississippi lawmakers are holding public redistricting hearings, including a Coast session in Biloxi, after a Louisiana Supreme Court ruling reshaped how maps are drawn. College Sports (Ole Miss/LSU): Ole Miss’ win over LSU and Lane Kiffin’s return to Oxford are driving major local and national sports coverage, with Ole Miss climbing in AP rankings. Energy/Jobs: Gov. Reeves highlighted energy growth and data centers at a Southern States Energy Board meeting. Local Community: Mississippi State and Ole Miss sports updates plus Jackson-area community items, including a Mississippi Science Fest in Jackson. Business: A Wendy’s franchise operator running 314 restaurants filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Public Safety/Health: Early voting rules vary by state, and a national push for postpartum mental health support is gaining attention after a high-profile case.

Boating Tragedy: One person died and four others were hurt after two boats collided early Sunday on the Ross Barnett Reservoir near Goshen Springs; both operators face felony DUI charges and $100,000 bonds. Jackson Justice: The mother of Tasia Fortune, found hanging from a tree in Jackson in August, says Jackson police have told her more suspects may be involved as she presses for arrests. Sports—Ole Miss: Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss surged to the top of Heisman favorites after the Rebels’ 32-24 upset of LSU. Politics—Mississippi House Race: Independent candidate Carl Boyanton filed an FEC complaint alleging Rep. Mike Ezell broke campaign-finance rules tied to $217,000 in Chouest family contributions. Local Economy—Cattle: Mississippi State Extension warns soaring transportation and diesel costs are squeezing cattle producers’ margins heading into 2027. Community & Learning: MSU Extension’s “AI to Answers” program is rolling out AI-focused digital marketing training for agricultural entrepreneurs and Extension professionals.

Ole Miss-LSU fallout: Ole Miss jumped to No. 4 in the AP Top 25 after beating LSU 32-24 in Oxford, while LSU fell to No. 10—setting up a big SEC Week 4 conversation around injuries and momentum. Local sports injuries: LSU reported season-ending trouble for DB Dashawn Spears (ACL) and a knee injury for TE Trey’Dez Green, adding pressure as the Tigers prepare for Texas A&M. Mississippi politics in the spotlight: Gov. Tate Reeves took shots at Lane Kiffin and LSU after the loss, turning the game into a state-level political moment. Education policy debate: A new analysis links weaker early-literacy outcomes with stronger teachers’ unions, and it flags Mississippi among states highlighted for stronger reading results. Community good news: Rotary volunteers in Biloxi helped build 50 beds for children through Sleep in Heavenly Peace, with donated bedding and books. Health & safety watch: FEMA flood-map updates are pushing more homes into high-risk flood zones, raising flood-insurance deadlines for thousands.

College Football Rankings: Ole Miss jumped to No. 4 in the AP Top 25 after beating LSU 32-24 in Oxford, giving the SEC 10 ranked teams. LSU fell to No. 10, while Florida and Mississippi State also cracked the poll. Local Sports: Jackson-area prep football spotlight: Jackson Prep held off a Madison-Ridgeland Academy comeback for a 28-25 MAIS Class 4A District 2 win. Injury Update (LSU): LSU’s Dashawn Spears is out for the year with a season-ending ACL injury, and starting TE Trey’Dez Green is expected to miss games after an MRI showed no torn ligaments. Politics (Mississippi): The Congressional Black Caucus Institute launched a “SO VOTE” effort aimed at boosting turnout among young and rural voters, including outreach across Georgia and Mississippi ahead of midterms. Aviation (Meridian): Meridian Regional Airport is updating travelers on progress toward its new terminal, with construction and paving continuing. Legal/Media: Sunny Hostin faces a defamation threat tied to comments about Nolan Wells’ death, with attorneys demanding retraction and apology.

Ole Miss vs. LSU fallout: No. 8 Ole Miss beat No. 7 LSU 32-24 in Lane Kiffin’s return to Oxford, with Trinidad Chambliss throwing for 363 yards and scoring as LSU rallied from a 24-7 halftime deficit but fell short on a late interception. Local politics on the big stage: Three Mississippi Republicans—Cindy Hyde-Smith, Andy Gipson and Lynn Fitch—spent more than $25,000 on ads during the game, banking on the massive TV audience. Safety concern at Vaught-Hemingway: Fans raised alarms after a helicopter appeared to come too close to a drone during the broadcast. Mississippi infrastructure push: A planned Interstate 14 “Forts to Ports” route would connect Mississippi cities like Meridian, Laurel and Natchez to ports, but progress has stalled without dedicated federal funding. Jackson community: Mississippi Science Fest returned to the LeFleur Museum District with hands-on STEAM activities for families. Crime prevention focus: A Mississippi lawmaker argues organized cargo theft can be stopped with better coordination and stronger federal tools.

Holiday Shopping in Jackson: The Holiday Market of Jackson returns to the Mississippi Trade Mart Sept. 18-20 with 125+ merchants selling gifts, décor, boutique clothing, food, jewelry and more, plus extra security after a March fire canceled the spring event. Public Health Alert: Health officials say a person with measles traveled by train from Chicago to Los Angeles, potentially exposing people across multiple California counties and other stops—vaccination urged. Ole Miss-LSU Game Week: Oxford braces for Lane Kiffin’s return as LSU visits Ole Miss Saturday night, with heightened security and a plane banner targeting Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith’s opponent. Local Business & Tech: Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College will host the inaugural Gulf Coast AI Summit to help small businesses and everyday workers understand how AI is changing jobs. Courts: A federal appeals court lets an Oxford man continue challenging Lafayette County’s courthouse-ground rules while limiting enforcement of a nighttime curfew against him. Community Calendar: Jackson-area readers also get a steady stream of local listings, including events and brief updates.