Benton City Man’s Cause of Death Ruled “Undetermined” By Coroner

The Benton County coroner has released a report on cause of death of a Benton City man who died in January of this year. On January 17th, Leslie Young was found dead in his home in Benton City, and an autopsy showed blunt force trauma the likely cause of death.  An autopsy was performed January 31st.

However, continued investigation has determined the pathologist believes he died due to an assault. The report indicated wounds consistent with such an incident. A statement by a witness seemed to back up that theory.  However, a different picture has been officially painted by additional information.  From the report by Coroner John Hansens:

"Based on the medical evidence, there is a reasonable possibility that the cause of the blunt force injuries to the head was a fall, or series of falls, the last of which would have had to occur inside the residence where the decedent was found.

As there is video footage showing the decedent falling down earlier in the evening, it is possible he fell on his way home and that he fell inside the residence, resulting in his death.

Given those circumstances, the Manner of Death will be listed as Undetermined. Should more evidence or testimony be developed in this case that determination will be subject to change."