The mother of Tasia Fortune, a 29-year-old Black woman whose body was found hanging from a tree on August 3 in Jackson, Mississippi, has stated that her daughter "did not do this to herself," asserting that suicide is not a possibility.

Christy Spivey, Fortune's mother, told ABC News that her family has been "devastated" by the death. Fortune, a mother of four, was last seen by her mother on July 26, when she visited Kentucky for a family reunion. Spivey reported that her daughter was "at peace" and in a better state of mind than she had been in a long time.

"I know my daughter and she did not do this to herself," Spivey stated, directly refuting any suggestion of suicide. "She had so little and gave so much."

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) confirmed that Fortune's death is being treated as an "active death investigation." The Hinds County Coroner's Office has identified Fortune, and the Mississippi State Medical Examiner's Office is conducting an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death.

In a letter obtained by ABC News, Jackson City Council member Kenneth Stokes has requested assistance from U.S. Attorney Baxter Kruger's office in investigating the case. The letter refers to the "death of an unidentified female discovered hanging in the backyard of an abandoned house" and highlights the urgent need for federal support.

Authorities have not released further details regarding persons of interest or the specifics of the investigation. The JPD has asked for public assistance and is encouraging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

This case occurs against a backdrop of heightened awareness regarding racial justice and investigations into suspicious deaths. The family's insistence on foul play adds a critical layer to the ongoing police inquiry, with the community awaiting further developments.

Anyone struggling with thoughts of suicide can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or by chatting at 988lifeline.org. Free, confidential help is available 24/7.