Toronto police are investigating the suspicious deaths of billionaire pharmaceutical executive Barry Sherman, 75, and his wife, Honey Sherman, 70, who were found dead Friday at their North York home. Police said both died from ligature neck compression and that homicide detectives had taken over the investigation. They had not classified the deaths as homicides.

The couple’s bodies were found hanging by their indoor pool, according to reports citing a police source and a person close to the family. A real estate agent helping to sell the home reportedly discovered them. Police said there were no signs of forced entry and no outstanding suspects the public should be concerned about. Some media outlets reported that investigators were considering murder-suicide, but the Shermans’ four adult children rejected that suggestion and criticized the reported disclosure of the theory.

The deaths shocked friends, employees and members of Toronto’s Jewish community. Days earlier, Honey Sherman had emailed friends about the couple’s upcoming stay in Florida and plans to socialize there. The couple had recently welcomed a grandchild, and friends said Barry Sherman had spoken enthusiastically about his work.

Barry Sherman founded generic-drug maker Apotex in 1974 and built it into an international business. Canadian Business recently estimated his net worth at $4.77 billion, ranking him 15th among Canada’s wealthiest people. Friends and colleagues remembered him as reserved and intensely devoted to his work. Toronto Mayor John Tory praised his role in creating jobs and keeping Apotex operations in the city.

Honey Sherman was remembered as outgoing and committed to philanthropy. The couple donated millions to hospitals, universities and Jewish causes, and she served on boards associated with York University, Baycrest and Mount Sinai Hospital, among other organizations. Neighbours, Apotex employees and well-wishers left flowers outside their home as tributes continued to pour in.