MINERSVILLE -- The couple found slain in their Minersville home were victims of a murder-suicide, said Schuylkill County Coroner David Moylan III, who ruled Friday on the cause and manner of death.
Steven Gordon Cox and Tammy Sue Cox, both 60, of 314 Arlene St., were found dead in their home Thursday.
"The cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head," Moylan said of both victims.
Tammy Sue Cox was shot first, as she slept, he said. Steven Cox sustained a "self-inflicted wound to the left temple," Moylan said.
The postmortem CAT scans were done Friday at the Schuylkill County Forensic Center, New Philadelphia. Moylan said there is no need for traditional autopsies for the couple, whose bodies were found in a primary bedroom after firefighters broke down a deadbolted door.
A request by Steven Cox's employer sent police to the home at 1:14 p.m. Thursday, and the Schuylkill County Coroner's office was dispatched at 1:28 p.m.
Schuylkill County Deputy Coroner Albert T. Barnes pronounced the deaths at the scene.
Minersville Police Chief Jeffrey Bowers said he had suspected a murder-suicide, and the tragic case is now closed.
"It was evident she was shot at point-blank range," and had gunpowder burns on her face," Bowers said Thursday.
The man's employer asked police on Thursday to conduct a welfare check because it was unlike Steven Cox to miss work for three days, according to Bowers. Upon arrival, police noticed two vehicles in the driveway and packages stacked outside the door.
Prior to Thursday, police had never been called to the house, Bowers said.
He spoke with the couple's daughter, who told them that Steven Cox had been a constable in Chester County for 12 years.
"It's very sad when people see this as the only way out of a bad situation," Bowers said. "You wish you could help prevent these tragedies from happening. It's heartbreaking for the entire family when they're left to pick up the pieces," he said.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7.