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Coroner's Report: Children In Castle Rock Died Of Asphyxiation

The two children who were found dead last Spring inside their Castle Rock home died from asphyxia due to smothering, according to a new report from the coroner in Douglas County.

Kelli Murphy, 41, faces charges in the May 23 deaths of Liam Murphy, 9, and Madigan Murphy, 6. The children were found dead in their beds.

The autopsies on the bodies were performed by Dr. Michael Burson, a forensic pathologist. Officials described his conclusion as follows:

"After receiving the results of toxicology tests which were negative, it has been determined that the cause of death for both children is asphyxia due to smothering; the manner of death is homicide."

Authorities said Murphy was the one who called 911 in the case and they said she told the dispatcher she was going to commit suicide. She also allegedly said that her children were in heaven.

Kelli Murphy
Kelli Murphy (credit: CBS)

Murphy was hospitalized briefly before a court appearance in which she was seen with bandages on her wrists.

So far it's not clear why Murphy may have killed the children. Murphy had been going through divorce and bankruptcy proceedings.

A candlelight ceremony was held in late May to remember Liam and Madigan Murphy. Watch a report about that in the video clip below.

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