The mysterious death of a pharmaceuticals billionaire and his wife in Toronto is now being investigated by homicide detectives.
The mysterious death of a pharmaceuticals billionaire and his wife in Toronto is now being investigated by homicide detectives.
ADVERTISEMENTToronto is abuzz about the deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman, who were known for making a fortune in the tough business of generic drugs, and giving a lot of it away to charity https://t.co/afIowJGeTt
— New York Times World (@nytimesworld) December 18, 2017
The couple were found hanging from a railing by the side of their pool on Friday by a real estate agent.
Police have said there was no sign of forced entry to the home, which is listed for sale at C$6.9 million ($5.4 million).
The case has dominated the Canadian news, with employees, friends and leading politicians expressing shock.
The Globe and Mail, Toronto Sun and Toronto Star reported Saturday that police were operating on the theory that Barry Sherman had killed his wife and hanged himself.
A statement issued late Saturday on behalf of the Shermans’ four children criticized that idea.
“We are shocked and think it’s irresponsible that police sources have reportedly advised the media of a theory which neither their family, their friends nor their colleagues believe to be true,” the statement reads.
“We urge the Toronto Police Service to conduct a thorough, intensive and objective criminal investigation,” it said.
Barry Sherman founded Apotex Inc in 1974 and built it into one of the world’s biggest generic drug makers, making him one of Canada’s richest people.
But despite his immense wealth he lived a relatively modest life, preferring to give much of it away to charity.