Mississippi police say woman was dead before body was staged in tree

Police in Mississippi have told a court that the 29‑year‑old black woman found hanging from a tree in Jackson was already dead before her body was placed there.

Detective testimony on Friday indicated that investigators believe Tasia Fortune was killed in a drug‑related dispute and that the hanging was staged after her death.

Fortune’s body was discovered in August on the grounds of an abandoned house in Jackson, a city with a majority‑black population and a history of racial violence and lynchings. The finding sparked widespread fear and speculation in the community.

Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney reiterated that the department’s statements have consistently described the victim as being found in a hanging position, and said no information contrary to that has been released.

The medical examiner later confirmed the death was a homicide and that a murder charge would be pursued. Jarques Ratliff, 51, has been arrested, pleaded not guilty and remains in custody without bond. A second suspect, Earnest Lloyd Jr, 25, was also arrested, and authorities are seeking a third individual.

Investigation continues

Officials have not disclosed the exact cause of death or detailed why they consider the hanging to have been staged, leaving the community awaiting further information.

Source: BBC News. Photo: Ruza Leko / Pexels.