A toxicology report has linked the deaths of two Oxford university students to substances allegedly sold at a local vape shop, according to a recent federal filing. The report found the compounds mitragynine, MGM-15, and MGPI in the systems of Aidan Hamilton and Robert Strang—substances investigators claim were also found in “Smax Mango Breeze” capsules recovered from both students’ residences.
Federal prosecutors allege that Puffs Vape, Tobacco and Beer Store in Oxford sold the pills to Hamilton twice in the days before his death. Authorities did not say whether Strang, who reportedly purchased similar pills from a store outside the county, obtained them under comparable circumstances.
The toxicology findings were detailed in a motion filed by federal prosecutors seeking to keep two individuals linked to the store, identified as manager Yahya Mosleh and his 18-year-old son, Islam Mosleh, in custody. The motion describes the men as a threat to the community. Both face federal drug charges.
Prosecutors allege an undercover buyer purchased the same pills from the vape shop, during which Yahya Mosleh reportedly warned the buyer to "be careful" because the pills had been causing fatalities in the area. The substances in question, according to prosecutors, are already banned in Oxford.
Further troubling allegations involve Islam Mosleh, who is a student at Oxford High School. According to the motion, the school resource officer reported suspicions to investigators that Islam was selling THC-infused vapes to students. Photographic evidence provided by the officer reportedly matched products later recovered from Islam’s backpack.
The store has since been closed, displaying a sign indicating the closure is "until further notice." During the police operation last week, witnesses reported seeing numerous law enforcement and narcotics officers at the scene. A nearby business employee recalled hearing that an individual, believed to be Islam Mosleh, attempted to flee when officers arrived.
Community members have expressed shock and sadness over the investigation and its surrounding events. Angelica McKinney, a local resident, said she was surprised to learn about the alleged activities at the vape shop but noted the pressures young people face today. She encouraged parents to keep lines of communication open, particularly regarding mental health and the challenges teens encounter.
While officials continue to investigate the exact causes of death for both students, the allegations have raised broader concerns about drug access and usage among young people. Hamilton, originally of Denver, Colorado, was laid to rest there on Friday.
Attorneys for Yahya and Islam Mosleh declined to comment on the case at this time.