The Jackson Police Department has confirmed it is conducting an active death investigation into the Aug. 3 hanging death of Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old Black woman found dead in a tree. Authorities have not publicly identified any persons of interest or provided updates on the case since the announcement of the investigation on Aug. 4.
Federal officials asked to assist in inquiry
Jackson City Council member Kenneth Stokes sent a letter to U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger on Aug. 4 requesting federal assistance in the investigation, according to a letter obtained by ABC News. The letter did not specify the nature of the requested support but emphasized the need for a thorough inquiry.
The Hinds County Coroner’s Office has identified Fortune’s body, and the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death, a spokesperson confirmed. Police have not released further details about the investigation, including whether any suspects or witnesses have been interviewed.
Family disputes suicide claim
Fortune’s mother, Christy Spivey, told ABC News on Aug. 4 that she believes her daughter did not die by suicide. Spivey described Fortune as a loving and resilient person who was in a stable state of mind during their last meeting on July 26, when Fortune traveled from Mississippi to Kentucky for a family reunion.
“She was better than I had seen her in a long time. She was at peace,” Spivey said. “She did not do this to herself. I know my daughter and she did not do this to herself.”
Fortune, a mother of four, had lived in Mississippi for over a decade. Her family has expressed devastation over her death, with Spivey stating that the loss has “just devastated us.”
Ongoing uncertainty
The Jackson Police Department has not provided additional updates on the investigation, and authorities have not confirmed whether the death is being treated as a homicide, suicide, or undetermined. The lack of public information has left the case shrouded in uncertainty, with family members and community members calling for transparency.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not ruled out any potential leads.