Aug 8, 2024; Paris, France; Former NFL player Colin Kaepernick looks on during the first half between the United States and Serbia in a men's basketball semifinal game during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games at Accor Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump announced Friday that that the Colin Kaepernick “Know Your Rights Camp Autopsy Initiative” will cover the cost of a second independent autopsy for deceased Delta State University student Demartravion “Trey” Reed.

Reed was found dead hanging from a tree on the Delta State University campus on Sept. 15. Cleveland Police Department officials said the Mississippi State Medical Examiner's Office conducted an autopsy and determined the cause of Reed’s death was hanging and concluded the action to be suicide. Cleveland Police Department added that final toxicology results are ongoing and could take two to four weeks to finish, according to a statement, via the Clarion Ledger, part of the USA TODAY Network.

According to a press release from Crump’s office, Reed’s family has raised concerns after receiving conflicting accounts and incomplete information about the circumstances of his tragic death.

“Trey’s death evoked the collective memory of a community that has suffered a historic wound over many, many years and many, many deaths. Peace will come only by getting to the truth,” the press release read. “We thank Colin Kaepernick for supporting this grieving family and the cause of justice and truth.”

Kaepernick played in the NFL for six seasons. His decision in the 2016 season to kneel during the national anthem to protest social injustice and police brutality sparked national debate.

The former quarterback hasn’t played in the NFL since the 2016 season. Kaepernick filed a grievance against the NFL, alleging collusion against him. The two parties reached a settlement in 2019.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Colin Kaepernick initiative to cover costs of independent autopsy for Trey Reed

Reporting by Tyler Dragon, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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