GRAHAM, WA. (NEWS1130) - There are more disturbing details about the tragic death of two children in a house explosion near Seattle two days ago. Autopsy results suggest the kids were attacked by their father before they died.
Pierce County Sheriff's Detective Ed Troyer could not imagine a worse situation. Seven-year-old Charles Powell and his five-year-old brother Braden died of carbon monoxide poisoning, but before they died, they suffered.
"We did discover what is a hatchet or small axe and we believe that is the weapon that was used and the medical examiner has confirmed our worst fear."
He adds the children had "chop injuries" to their head and neck. "Ever since this whole thing started it's been one of those things that you think just can't get worse or stranger but it does."
Investigators say the father, Josh Powell, tried to kill his children but was overwhelmed by smoke. He also died in the explosion.
Police hope to speak to his father, Steve Powell, who is in jail on child pornography and voyeurism charges.
Josh's wife, Susan, has been missing for the past two years. Last week a judge denied another request for the two boys to be solely in his custody.