JACKSON – An autopsy performed Monday, Jan. 5, has determined that James Blount, 63, of Severn died from natural causes.

Blount lived a few houses down on East Main Street in Severn from Harvey Davis, 85, a murder victim found in his home on Dec. 24.

Both men were both found under similar circumstances: elderly gentlemen in poor health who were discovered deceased in their homes just eight days apart. This led some people in the community to link the two deaths.

While the Northampton County Sheriff’s Office has an ongoing criminal investigation into Davis’ death, it says the two deaths are not related since Blount, as originally suspected, died of natural causes.

The Sheriff’s Office was called to the Blount home on Jan. 1 to check on his wellbeing because family members had not heard from him for a couple of weeks. Responding deputies found Blount deceased, in his home.

Northampton Sheriff Jack Smith wants to thank Conway Fire, EMS, and Police departments for their assistance, as well as Northampton County EMS, and members of the Northampton County Sheriff Office for their response and professionalism at the site.

“We are fortunate to know that there was no foul play involved in Mr. Blount’s death,” the sheriff said, “and we extend our condolences to his family.”

Davis was found dead in his home on 422 East Main, Severn on Christmas Eve, eight days prior to the discovery of Blount’s body.

Sheriff 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.

The autopsy revealed that Davis’ death was due to foul play and the case was ruled a homicide.

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

Smith said the investigation in the Davis case is on-going.

He is still 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.