The bodies of two people discovered at their Ashland City residence on January 26, 2018, have been identified as John M. Pendleton, 60, and Mildred Jones, 67.
According to the Cheatham County Sheriff’s Office, Pendleton and Jones were first cousins who lived together on Caldwell Road since Jones’ husband passed away several years ago.
The autopsies were completed at the Davidson County Medical Examiner’s Office on January 29; their causes of death will remain undetermined until toxicology reports are complete.
While the preliminary findings revealed no foul play, investigators uncovered a “bizarre” scene when trying to piece together the puzzle that surrounded the pair of deaths.
According to authorities, it was apparent Jones had been deceased in her bedroom for an unknown, but extended, period of time before Pendleton died in the front yard of the same home.
While they are currently unsure as to why, there is evidence that Pendleton attempted to keep Jones’ death a secret, even going to the extent of trying to mask the odor caused by decomposition.
It was also reported that Mrs. Jones was in poor health from a series of strokes.
Evidence also indicated that Pendleton had more-than-likely been sleeping at the home after Jones passed away.
Pendleton was observed coming and going from the home in his vehicle as recently as last week. Jones was last seen by neighbors and friends before Christmas.
The case remains active and ongoing.
