Woman, 88, died from head injury

5/8/2009

An elderly woman who was found dead in her North Toledo home Tuesday died as a result of blunt-force trauma to the head, the Lucas County Coroner's office ruled yesterday.

Frances Fox, 88, of 3373 Mulberry St. was attacked in her home at some point Friday or early Saturday. Her husband, Kenneth, 74, was also beaten but survived the attack and called for emergency help Tuesday afternoon.

Dr. Maneesha Pandey, deputy coroner, said she could not comment on the extent of Mrs. Fox's injuries, saying the investigation is ongoing. She said there has been no ruling on the time of death, as additional testing is being done. "It will take some time, and we don't want to rush," she said.

Authorities said Mr. Fox had been unconscious several days before being able to call for help. He is in serious condition at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center.

The couple's home had been ransacked. Their front door showed no signs of forced entry and the back door was ajar, police said.

Deputy Chief Don Kenney said detectives are continuing to investigate.