A chilling discovery was made in Madison Heights this Wednesday morning when a house fire led to the uncovering of two bodies, later determined to have died in a murder-suicide. Authorities have identified the deceased as Christopher Spicer, 40, and Candace Hawkins, 42, who were found dead in a residence on West Harwood Avenue.

According to The Detroit News, police say the fire appears to have been set intentionally. Autopsy reports indicate that Hawkins was the victim of multiple stab wounds, and Spicer died from self-inflicted stab wounds, a preliminary report stated. The pair had previously been romantically involved, though they had to reportedly break up about eight months ago, maintaining contact post-separation.

In an interview with FOX 2 Detroit, Spicer's father expressed shock, claiming his son "was never violent" and was at a loss over the nature of the tragic events. Details gathered from the scene suggest that Hawkins was attacked with a hunting knife, which may have been the murder weapon, before the house was set on fire.

Murder-suicide theories are being pieced together as investigations unfold, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. The Madison Heights Police Department is keen to fully unravel what transpired prior to the fire. The fire department, which responded to the incident, agrees with police assessments that the fire was likely started deliberately to mask the grim scene. CBS Detroit reports that the first responders were called to the scene shortly before 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

Madison Heights Police Det. Lt. David Koehler and his department have continued to ask for the public's assistance, stating in a statement obtained by CBS Detroit, "Our condolences go out to those affected by this tragedy." Community members with insights into the case are encouraged to call Det. Lt. Koehler at (248) 837-2732 or the Madison Heights Police Department at (248) 585-2100.