Important safety message for our community
The following message was distributed to students on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2026.
Students,
Over the past several days, there has been increased discussion and rumors on social media regarding student deaths reported at another SEC institution. We recognize that news like this can be upsetting and may lead to questions and concerns within our community.
At this time, we encourage our community to rely on information from official university and law enforcement sources, as rumors and speculation can spread quickly. Law enforcement officials have not announced any cause of death and have stated only that packaged kratom purchased from a retail store was found during their investigations.
We also want to address misinformation circulating online. While kratom, fentanyl and a substance called cychlorphine have been the topic of discussion on social media, UK Police have not encountered any recent cases involving these substances among members of our student community.
The safety of our community remains our top priority. The UK Police Department and Office for Student Success encourage you to keep the following safety information in mind:
Kratom is a product derived from a plant native to Southeast Asia and is commonly sold as capsules, powders, extracts and beverages, often in smoke shops, vape shops and convenience stores.
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved kratom for any medical use and has warned of potential health risks, including dependence, seizures and other serious adverse effects.
- Kratom may be marketed as a “natural” or “herbal” product, but natural does not always mean safe.
- It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, impaired judgment and dependence.
- Effects can vary significantly and potentially be dangerous because these products are not consistently regulated.
- Importantly, never take substances that have not been prescribed to you by a medical doctor.
If you see someone who is unresponsive, has difficulty breathing or experiences a medical emergency after using any substance, seek immediate help by dialing 911, #UKPD or through the SafeZone app to request assistance.
Students who seek emergency assistance for themselves or others may be eligible for amnesty, meaning the incident may not be recorded on their student conduct record and may not result in costs associated with required educational interventions. The most important thing is getting help when it's needed.
Remember, safety is a shared responsibility.
- Look out for one another. If a friend seems unusually impaired, ill or in distress, stay with them and call for help.
- Be cautious of products purchased online, at smoke shops or from individuals, as contents and potency may not be what they appear to be.
- Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t seem right, remove yourself from the situation and seek help from UK Police.
- If you see something, say something. You can report anonymous tips through the SafeZone app or by calling the UKPD non-emergency line at 859-257-UKPD (8573).
We encourage anyone feeling anxious or distressed by these conversations to use campus support resources available to you.
TRACS (Triage, Referral, Assistance and Crisis Support) is UK’s centralized mental health assessment, triage, referral and crisis support program. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, experiencing a crisis or simply aren't sure where to start, they’re here to help.
Students can show up in-person (third floor, east wing of the Gatton Student Center), call 859-21TRACS (859-218-7227) or fill out this form to be connected to a caring team member who is ready to listen and willing to help.
Additional Support
- Helping with Grief and Loss: Resources and practical tips for coping with grief and supporting others.
- Collegiate Recovery Program: Support and resources for students in recovery or seeking help related to substance use.
If you have further questions or concerns, please contact UKPoliceChief@uky.edu.
Kirsten Turner, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Success
Joe Monroe
Chief of Police
University of Kentucky Police Department
As the state’s flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders — placing students at the heart of everything we do — and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people — visionaries, disruptors and pioneers — who make up 200 academic programs, a $1.02 billion research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus.