(CNN) An activist in Ferguson, Missouri, whose son was found dead near her home said she believes he was killed -- even as police investigate the man's death as a suicide.

Danye Jones

Danye Jones was found on Oct. 17 in a wooded area in St. Louis County, police said. His mother, Melissa McKinnies, said family members found him hanging by a bed sheet from a tree behind their home.

By the time police arrived at the scene, the victim was lying on the ground, St. Louis County Police spokesman Shawn McGuire said Thursday.

There were no signs of trauma or foul play, and detectives are investigating his death as a suicide after talking to several relatives and friends, he said.

Mother: 'He would not do that'

Read More