LAKEPORT — The Lakeport Police Department (LPD) says evidence in the investigation of the mysterious death of Lakeport resident Dani Simpson-Burch remains consistent with suicide, but additional evidence from an autopsy needs examination before the death is classified.
Simpson-Burch, 65, and her dog were found dead of unnatural causes at her downtown Lakeport home at 60 Lily Cove Avenue earlier this month after a relative phoned police requesting a welfare check. Simpson-Burch shared the home with her son, Jeffery Leonard Simpson, an electrician.
The date and time of Simpson-Burch”s death have not yet been confirmed, pending a full autopsy report the LPD expects in the next couple of weeks, according to Lieutenant Brad Rasmussen.
“Results of toxicology testing are still pending, we still have persons to interview who may have information?over the next couple of weeks we hope to get those interviews done,” Rasmussen said.
He added, “Physical evidence that we seized still needs to be examined?at this point it”s too early to classify the death. The evidence that we have obtained leans toward the manner of death being consistent with suicide.”
Although LPD had previously told the Record-Bee that information would soon be released to the public, Rasmussen said he spoke with the lead investigator and was told not to release further details until additional evidence can be examined and interviews completed.
Contact Elizabeth Wilson at ewilson@record-bee.com
