Black woman found hanging from tree behind vacant home in Jackson, Mississippi

JACKSON, Miss. — The family of Tasia Fortune, the 29‑year‑old woman found hanging from a tree behind a vacant Jackson home, seeks justice as police continue investigating her death.

What Happened to Tasia Fortune?

Officers found Fortune’s body Monday evening in the 500 block of Road of Remembrance, according to a press release. Neighbors discovered her in the backyard and called police.

Hinds County Coroner Jeremiah Howard confirmed Fortune was found hanging from a tree. He said her body was sent to the Mississippi State Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy. Police have not determined the cause or manner of death.

Authorities have not said whether foul play is suspected. Detectives are reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses and working to establish a timeline.

Tasia Fortune’s Family Pushes for Transparency and Accountability

Fortune’s relatives say they want answers, not assumptions. Her aunt, Etta Avolio, launched a GoFundMe to help cover burial expenses. She described Fortune as “strong‑minded, big‑hearted and vibrant,” and said the family is “devastated and heartbroken.” Avolio wrote that the family “holds firmly to their faith” and believes “justice will be served.”

“The family also wants others to know that justice will be served, and they hold firmly to their faith, believing that God is on their side as they walk through this heartbreaking loss,” Fortune’s aunt added.

Second Hanging Death Intensifies Community Concern

Fortune’s death comes weeks after Trey Reed, a 22‑year‑old Black man, was found hanging from a tree in Jackson on June 15. Reed’s family continues to seek answers and has pressed investigators for transparency. Because of Reed’s case, community advocates say Fortune’s death demands heightened scrutiny. They argue both cases raise urgent questions about public safety and investigative urgency.

Advocates say two hanging deaths in such a short period require a thorough and independent review. They insist investigators must release clear information and ensure families are not left without answers.

City Councilman Requests Federal Assistance

Ward 3 Councilman Kenneth Stokes sent a letter Wednesday to U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger, asking for federal involvement, according to WLBT. Stokes said the circumstances surrounding Fortune’s death warrant outside oversight. He said the community needs confidence that investigators will pursue every lead and treat the case with urgency.

The investigation remains active, and Fortune’s family says they will continue pushing until they know exactly what happened.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 601-355-TIPS.