The pair was found near the pool in their basement.
After one of Canada's richest men was found dead along with his wife in their home on Friday, police are investigating the case as a murder-suicide, according to reports.
Billionaire pharmaceutical mogul and prominent philanthropist Barry Sherman, 75, and his wife, Honey, were found dead in their Toronto home around noon Friday. Police initially called the case “suspicious” but confirmed they weren’t searching for any suspects.
Investigators now believe Sherman killed his wife, hung her body, and then took his own life, the New York Post reported.
Their bodies were reportedly found hanging from a railing surrounding a pool in their basement. Police said there were no signs of forced entry.
The couple’s family is disputing reports of a murder-suicide, however.
“Our parents shared an enthusiasm for life and commitment to their family and community totally inconsistent with the rumors regrettably circulated in the media as to the circumstances surrounding their deaths,” family members said in a statement.
Family members are calling for a “thorough, intensive and objective criminal investigation.”
The news has shocked the business, government and philanthropic communities in Canada, where the Shermans were known for their wealth as well as their capacity for giving.
"I am shocked and heartbroken to learn that Barry and Honey Sherman were found dead in their home today. I have had the privilege of knowing them both well for many years,” Toronto Mayor John Tory said.
The company that Sherman founded also released a statement.
“All of us at Apotex are deeply shocked and saddened by this news and our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time,” the statement read.
Sherman had recently been listed as Canada's 15th richest person with an estimated worth of $3.65 billion, according to The Associated Press.
The Shermans leave behind four children.
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