Emma R Handler, 89, and her son William Womack, 68, were found dead near their home in the Leslie area of Sumter County, south-west Georgia, after a welfare-check call on 22 September. Authorities are investigating the deaths, which were discovered about a week after they occurred; the cause has not yet been established.

Local station WALB reported that Womack was mowing the grass with a push mower when he collapsed, and investigators believe his mother went outside to help before collapsing too. Autopsies are under way, and the sheriff’s office is working with state investigators and the county coroner. The sheriff said there was no evidence of foul play or suspicion, while noting the investigation remains active.