SEVERN – In what was initially believed to be a death by natural causes on Dec. 24 has turned into a murder investigation by the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office.

The victim, 85-year-old Harvey Davis, was found deceased inside of his home at 422 East Main Street in Severn.

Northampton Sheriff Jack Smith said Davis was known to have health problems and first responders thought he may have taken a bad fall that led to his death.

An autopsy was performed Monday, Dec. 28 in Greenville. The autopsy revealed that Davis’ death was due to foul play and the case was ruled as a homicide.

The Northampton County Sheriff’s Office contacted the State Bureau of Investigation to assist with the murder investigation.

Sheriff Smith said the investigation is ongoing. He is asking anyone with information about this case to please contact the Sheriff’s Department at 252-534-2611 or the Northampton Crime Stoppers at 252-534-1110. All information will be kept confidential.