Man Arrested and Charged With Homicide in Death of Tasia Fortune in Mississippi

An Arrest Made in Jackson Homicide

Jarques Ratliff was taken into custody Friday afternoon. Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney told reporters that investigators secured arrest and search warrants before making the apprehension.

Her body was discovered in various stages of decomposition. The local medical examiner’s office officially classified her death as a homicide on Thursday evening, according to Brackney.

The Search and Suspect Custody

Police stated that Ratliff had an association with Fortune, though authorities declined to specify the exact nature of their relationship. Following the homicide ruling, investigators served two search warrants on Friday. Ratliff was not initially found at the location.

Officers later located him walking along Capitol Street in Jackson. They took him into custody without incident.

While police confirmed that Fortune was found in a hanging position, Brackney did not elaborate on the specific cause of death. Officials also did not state whether DNA evidence contributed to the arrest. Authorities indicated that further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.

Chief Brackney Emphasizes Active Investigation

The arrest today is an important development in this investigation, but it is not the conclusion. This case remains active, and additional arrests will be pending as our investigators continue to follow the evidence wherever it leads, because Tasia and her children deserve nothing less.

Jackson Police Chief RaShall Brackney

Family Disbelief and Community Scrutiny

Fortune’s family had previously stated publicly that they did not believe she died by suicide. Christy Spivey, Fortune’s mother, told The Associated Press that she learned of the arrest on Friday. She immediately started crying to thank law enforcement.

Spivey noted that she did not know Ratliff. She added that the family remains in disbelief while awaiting further answers from investigators.

The case drew widespread attention and scrutiny due to Mississippi’s history with racial violence. Chief Brackney acknowledged those concerns during the Friday press briefing. She emphasized that investigators are viewing the case through a broad lens while ensuring all public statements remain anchored to verified evidence and facts.

Next Steps in the Case

Police confirmed that the Fortune family was notified immediately following the arrest.

Authorities have not yet disclosed whether Ratliff has retained legal representation.