Police probe 'suspicious' deaths of Jewish Canadian billionaire couple
Barry Sherman, 75-year-old founder of generic drug giant Apotex, his wife Honey found dead in basement of their Toronto mansion by real estate agent; circumstances of death deemed 'suspicious' by police, investigation underway; philanthropist couple considered key figures in Canada's Jewish community, eulogized by Canadian PM, Toronto mayor.
Canadian police said Saturday they were investigating the mysterious deaths of Barry Sherman, the Jewish founder of Canadian pharmaceutical firm Apotex Inc, and his wife, Honey, one of the nation's wealthiest couples whose bodies were found in their mansion on Friday.
"The circumstances of their death appear suspicious and we are treating it that way," said Constable David Hopkinson.
The Shermans recently listed their home for sale for nearly C$7 million ($5.4 million). A real estate agent discovered the bodies in the basement while preparing for an open house, the Toronto Globe and Mail reported, citing a relative.
Sherman, 75, founded privately held Apotex in 1974, growing it by introducing large numbers of low-cost generic drugs that took market share from branded pharmaceuticals. He stepped down as chief executive in 2012 but remained executive chairman.
Forbes has estimated Sherman's fortune at $3.2 billion.
Apotex is the world's No. 7 generic drugmaker with 11,000 employees and annual sales of more than C$2 billion in more than 45 countries, according to its website.
The couple was known for their philanthropy, giving tens of millions of dollars to hospitals, universities and Jewish organizations, CBC reported.
Their neighbors, business associates and some of Canada's most powerful politicians said they were saddened by the deaths.
"Our condolences to their family & friends, and to everyone touched by their vision & spirit," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on Twitter.
Toronto Mayor John Tory said in statement he was "shocked and heartbroken" to learn of the deaths, noting that the couple had made extensive contributions to the city.
"Toronto Police are investigating, and I hope that investigation will be able to provide answers for all of us who are mourning this tremendous loss," Tory said.
"I am beyond words right now," Ontario Health Minister Eric Hoskins said in a tweet. "My dear friends Barry and Honey Sherman have been found dead. Wonderful human beings, incredible philanthropists, great leaders in health care. A very, very sad day."
