Big Lake couple found dead in their home are identified

Investigators said there was no sign of trauma or violence and don't suspect foul play.

February 15, 2019 at 3:17AM

Authorities have identified a Big Lake couple found dead in their home earlier this week.

The Sherburne County Sheriff's Office said the two were Michael John Knox, 66, and Shirley Leaser Knox, 68.

Family members were unable to reach the couple for several days and called police to check in on them. Big Lake police officers arrived at the home about noon on Tuesday and discovered the bodies.

Investigators don't suspect foul play. Preliminary autopsy results indicate that there was no physical trauma to either of the Knoxes and there was no sign of violence at the home, according to a written statement from Sheriff Joel Brott.

There is no threat to public safety related to this incident, he added.

Investigators are waiting for the results of toxicology tests.

about the writer

about the writer

Mary Lynn Smith

Reporter

Mary Lynn Smith is a general assignment reporter for the Star Tribune. She previously covered St. Paul City Hall and Ramsey County. Before that, she worked in Duluth where she covered local and state government and business. She frequently has written about the outdoors.

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