Sheriff: 2 deaths in rural Bates City a murder-suicide

BATES CITY, Mo. (AP) - Lafayette County officials say the deaths of a rural Bates City couple were a murder-suicide.

The sheriff said in a news release that deputies sent to the couple’s home early Monday found the body of 52-year-old Robin Hicklin inside the house. They said Robin Hicklin appeared to be an assault victim.

While clearing the home, deputies found the body of 49-year-old John Hicklin in the basement.

The Lafayette County sheriff and coroner said the deaths were a result of a murder-suicide.