Autopsies Of Long-Dead Twin Brothers Say They Both Died Of Natural Causes

  • Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Medical Examiner reports for reclusive twin brothers Anthony Larry Johnson and Andrew Gary Johnson found dead in recliners in their home off Lupton Drive conclude that they both died of natural causes.

Authorities said the bodies of the dead brothers were not discovered for years at their home at 506 Acorn Drive until relatives finally had the house re-checked.

Police said, "After evaluation of the medical history, autopsy findings and toxicology, it is believed that Anthony Larry Johnson died as a result of arteriosclerotic heart disease.

"Shortly following the death of Anthony, Andrew Gary Johnson’s diabetes mellitus became out of control and he succumbed as well. Andrew had been relying on his brother to monitor glucose levels and insulin dosage, as he was disabled and had severe vision problems.

"Autopsies revealed no signs of injury or foul play to either Anthony or Andrew."

The bodies were finally discovered in late March.

Officers did respond to the residence, with family members, in 2011 in which time it was found that the residence appeared to be vacant.  A letter from the Post Office was found in the mailbox stating that they believed the residence to be vacant and to cease delivery of mail to the address. 

Officers also discovered in 2011, with family present, that there were no signs of forced entry to the residence, no foul odors, no signs of foul play or suspicious activity, and no visible/evident reason to allow forced entry to the residence.  At that time, family members indicated that they would not have been surprised if the brothers had moved without telling anyone.  Police did not receive any calls from neighbors about a foul odor or anything suspicious about the residence. 

Officers were called on March 29 by family members, who had a key to the residence, to check the status of Andrew and Anthony Johnson.  After officers were given the key and permission to enter, it was then that the brothers were found deceased inside the residence. 

Police said at the time, "While this incident is tragic and unfortunate, Andrew and Anthony lived a hermit lifestyle and did not communicate with family or anyone else.  The brothers also gave no indication that would lead anyone to believe they had any type of mental complications…they both had a valid driver’s license, insurance, owned vehicles and there were even records of them owning their own business.  While well being checks are routine calls, department protocol was followed each time Officers responded and there were no obvious exigent circumstances that would allow Officers to force entry to the residence on any of the calls received to check the well being of the brothers.  Since the residence was determined to be vacant and no key was available on the previous calls, Officers did not make entry."

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