Additional Coverage:
The Jackson Police Department has issued a statement concerning the autopsy of 29-year-old Tasia Fortune, whose body was discovered hanging from a tree on August 3 in Jackson, Mississippi.
According to the department, the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office performed the autopsy on Tuesday, but no official cause or manner of death has yet been released. The investigation remains open and classified as a death pending further examination while authorities await the medical examiner’s findings.
In their statement, the Jackson Police acknowledged the widespread public attention and the circulating speculation surrounding Ms. Fortune’s death on social media and other platforms. They emphasized the sensitive nature of the case and the community’s understandable concern.
Christy Spivey, Fortune’s mother, expressed profound grief over the loss of her daughter. Speaking to ABC News, Spivey described Fortune as being “better than I had seen her in a long time” and “at peace” before her death.
She firmly rejected the possibility of suicide, saying, “She did not do this to herself. I know my daughter and she did not do this to herself.”
A spokesperson for the Jackson Police confirmed that the Hinds County Coroner’s Office had officially identified Fortune and that the investigation into her death is ongoing.
The police urged both the public and media to refrain from speculation or drawing premature conclusions regarding the circumstances of the death until the Medical Examiner’s Office completes its review and issues an official determination. They highlighted that unverified information could cause additional distress to Fortune’s family and hinder a clear understanding of the facts.
The department stated that once the medical examiner releases the official cause and manner of death, they will provide an update to the public as appropriate.
ABC News has reached out to the Medical Examiner’s Office for further comment and information.