Trey Smolen (Donald Eugene Smolen III), Bozeman, Montana: Death Report Remains Unconfirmed

Online reports published on November 3, 2026, have named Trey Smolen, whose full name is given as Donald Eugene Smolen III, in connection with an alleged death. The reports associate him with Bozeman, Montana, and Montana State University (MSU).

A 2024 graduation profile offers a documented glimpse of his educational plans. Identified as Trey Smolen, he said he intended to attend Montana State University and pursue a business degree. His message expressed appreciation for his parents, brothers, teachers, and the wider community that had supported him. He also looked forward to a new chapter while acknowledging that he would miss his hometown.

That profile provides background about his aspirations at the time, but it does not establish his current enrollment or confirm the recent death reports.

Conflicting Reports and the Montana State University Memorial

There is an important distinction between the available educational information and the online death claims. A November 3 article discussing the reports notes that some online references identify Donald Smolen III with Michigan State University, while others mention the University of Montana. These are separate institutions, and the discrepancy has not been explained.

Montana State University maintains a student memorial for students who died before graduating. Its published list of names does not include Trey Smolen or Donald Eugene Smolen III. However, because the memorial covers a specific category of students, the absence of a name from that list cannot by itself establish whether someone has died.

What Remains Unconfirmed About Trey Smolen

The information reviewed does not independently confirm:

• Whether Trey Smolen, also identified as Donald Eugene Smolen III, has died.

• His date, location, or cause of death.

• His age or current student status.

• Whether Montana State University has issued a statement concerning him.

• Any family announcement, obituary, or funeral arrangements.

Remembering Trey Smolen With Accuracy and Respect

Trey’s 2024 graduation message provides a meaningful record of his plans and the gratitude he expressed toward the people who supported him. His intention to pursue a business degree at Montana State University marked an important moment in his educational journey.

For those searching for information about him, it is important to distinguish that documented background from the unverified reports now circulating online. A family announcement, funeral-home obituary, or reliable confirmation from an authorized source would be needed before his death could be reported as fact.