OXFORD — Oxford police are investigating a suspected overdose involving a 22-year-old person who had synthetic kratom products in their possession Thursday morning.
Officers responded about 5 a.m. to a residence on Sweetgum Lane after the person was found unresponsive. Emergency medical personnel were able to revive the person, who was alert and oriented when taken by ambulance for further treatment.
Police said the person is expected to recover.
The individual is not a student, and police said the incident is not student-related.
During the investigation, officers learned the person had synthetic kratom products. Based on statements provided to investigators, police said there is currently no indication the products were purchased in Oxford.
The Oxford Police Department and Lafayette County Metro Narcotics Unit are continuing to investigate.
The incident comes as local authorities have increased scrutiny of synthetic kratom products following recent investigations into the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. Authorities have said those death investigations remain separate and that toxicology results have not established whether kratom or any other substance contributed to either death.
Authorities also recently seized more than 500 units of kratom-related products, along with THC products and other suspected controlled substances, during a search of an Oxford vape and tobacco store.
Oxford police are warning the public that synthetic and manufactured kratom products can contain powerful and unpredictable substances.
Police also credited emergency medical personnel for their quick response and lifesaving treatment in Thursday’s incident.
Anyone witnessing or experiencing a suspected overdose is urged to call 911 immediately.
