Jarques Ratliff, 51, has been arrested and charged with homicide in connection with the death of Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old Black woman whose body was found hanging from a tree in Jackson, Mississippi on August 3rd. Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney announced the arrest Friday, stating it was “an important development” but that the investigation remains active and additional arrests are anticipated. The state medical examiner’s office ruled Fortune’s death a homicide on Thursday, after her autopsy was completed a month prior.
Fortune’s mother, Christy Spivey, expressed relief at the arrest but stated police had not shared details about the investigation, including whether DNA evidence led to Ratliff’s apprehension. Spivey affirmed her daughter, a mother of four, cross-country runner, and woman of faith, would not have taken her own life. An obituary described Fortune’s life as having “highs and lows.”
Authorities discovered Fortune’s body in various stages of decomposition. Brackney acknowledged the case has garnered global attention, particularly given Mississippi’s history, and stated police are taking those concerns seriously while prioritizing evidence-based conclusions. The investigation continues to follow leads, and Ratliff is expected to appear in Jackson municipal court no later than Monday morning. The case remains open, with police continuing to seek further information and potential suspects.
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