The mother of Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old Black woman whose body was discovered hanging from a tree on Aug. 3 in Jackson, Mississippi, has stated that her daughter “did not do this to herself.” Christy Spivey, Fortune’s mother, told ABC News on Sunday that her daughter’s death has devastated her family.
Spivey described her daughter as strong-minded, full of laughs and love, and faithful. Fortune, a mother of four, was last seen by Spivey on July 26 in Kentucky during a family reunion. Spivey stated that Fortune was in a better state of mind than she had seen her in a long time and was at peace. "I know my daughter and she did not do this to herself," Spivey said.
Investigation Status
A spokesperson for the Jackson Police Department confirmed that the death is under investigation and that the Hinds County Coroner’s Office identified Fortune. The Mississippi State Medical Examiner's Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. The police department has not released further comment on the investigation's status or any identified persons of interest.
Jackson City Council member Kenneth Stokes has formally requested assistance from U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger’s office to aid in the investigation. A letter obtained by ABC News indicates Stokes' dire need for federal support in the case of the unidentified female discovered hanging in the backyard of an abandoned house on the Road of Remembrance.
Police are asking for public assistance and have provided Crime Stoppers at 601-355-TIPS for anyone with information.
For those struggling with thoughts of suicide, confidential help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or chatting at 988lifeline.org.