Ole Miss Student Deaths: Store Clerk & Son Charged

A store clerk and his son face charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in connection with the deaths of two University of Mississippi students. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Mississippi announced the charges Friday, Oct. 2, 2026.

Yahya Mosleh, 51, and his son, Islam Mosleh, 18, were arrested after investigators linked kratom derivatives found in the students’ rooms to substances sold at their vape, tobacco, and beer store. Officials seized suspected kratom derivative controlled substances from the store.

The investigation began after law enforcement found the two Ole Miss students deceased. Prosecutors stated both deaths appeared consistent with overdoses. Toxicology reports are pending.

Kratom, a plant-based product, can have stimulant or sedative effects. Derivatives like MGPI, MGM-15, and MGM-16 are Schedule I controlled substances and are more potent than natural kratom. These are sometimes called “gas station heroin.” Kratom is legal federally, but Mississippi regulates its sale, requiring buyers to be 21 or older. Oxford and Lafayette County have banned kratom.