Monday, a Spokesperson for the D.C. Medical Examiner's Office confirmed both adult victims died from blunt force trauma to the head and asphyxia.
In a statement, the office Spokesperson wrote:
“The cause and manner of death for Regina Bowmen and Joseph Burgess: Regina Bowmen: Cause of Death - Blunt Force Trauma of the Head with Asphyxia due to neck compression and the Manner of Death was ruled a Homicide; and, Joseph Burgess: Cause of Death - Blunt Force Trauma of the Head with Asphyxia due to Obstruction of Airway and the Manner of Death was ruled a Homicide.”
D.C. police have identified the two people found dead inside a burning Southeast home as Joseph Burgess, 60, and Regina Burgess, 50.
First responders were orginally called to the 3300 block of Ely Place SE around 6:20 a.m. on Saturday for a fire when the bodies were discovered.
Police confirmed over the weekend that the deaths were ruled as homicides, according to an autopsy report by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
During a press conference on Monday police stated that another fire nearby on D St. also appeared to have been set intentionally. Police are investigating whether or not the two incidents are connected.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 202-727-9099 or text an anonymous tip to 50411.
