Junichi Tomonaga, member of a Japanese family, that died in a house fire in Christchurch. Photo / supplied
Junichi Tomonaga, member of a Japanese family, that died in a house fire in Christchurch. Photo / supplied
KEY POINTS:
Four Japanese people found dead in a Christchurch house were likely aware of a fire in the home but apparently did not seek help.
Police statements today added to speculation that the deaths of Junichi Tomonaga, 58, his wife Keiko, 60, his mother Michiko, 80, and boarder KinukoHanai, 37, may be the result of a murder-suicide or a suicide pact.
Detective Inspector Greg Williams said today that Junichi and Keiko Tomanaga were found together in their bed, and Ms Hanai was in her bed, when firefighters arrived and extinguished the blaze about 7.20am on Monday.
Michiko Tomonaga was found dead in her bedroom.
All four were alive when the fire started, and none had any injuries other those suffered during the fire. Petrol was used as an accelerant in the blaze.
"There's certainly evidence that they would have been aware there was a fire in the house. We have had no evidence from any of the neighbours, or any evidence that they called out from the home for assistance," Mr Williams said.
"I think it would be fair to say they did all die about the same time. My understanding is carbon monoxide poisoning, probably from the time of the fire, only takes a number of minutes....for death to occur."
The family had apparently been suffering financial difficulties prior to their deaths.
Toxicology results still to be received would determined if they had been drugged and what level of carbon monoxide was in their systems.
Mr Williams said he could still not rule out the possibility of someone outside the house being responsible for the deaths.
"At this point in time we don't have sufficient information to categorically confirm what's occurred within that house."
The four were last seen alive about 10.30pm on Sunday after having a meal with two young men Mr Tomonaga coached in baseball.
The examination of the house was still continuing, with fingerprinting and documents in Japanese to be read. It is expected to be completed tomorrow.
Family of the four dead did not want to make any public statements and planned private funerals.
