Tests in Hanson's death will take weeks

Jim Newberry, Dml -

Jeff Hanson

Tissue and toxicology tests will determine what happened to the St. Paul singer/songwriter.

Star Tribune

Last update: June 9, 2009 - 3:57 PM

The cause of singer/songwriter Jeff Hanson's death probably will not be determined for six to eight weeks pending tissue and toxicology tests, St. Paul officials said Monday.

Ramsey County medical examiner's office spokesman Don Gorrie said such tests are common in unattended deaths and "should not raise any speculation."

"We won't be sure of anything until the tests come back," he said.

St. Paul police will not release a report on the death until the examiner's report is issued. Foul play has been ruled out, however.

Officers were called to Hanson's apartment Friday afternoon, when his body was found by his parents, according to Hanson's sister. Sara Hanson said the singer, 31, likely suffered a fall or accident.

His family has set a private memorial service Saturday afternoon at the Merrill Hills Country Club in Waukesha, Wis., where Hanson grew up.

CHRIS RIEMENSCHNEIDER

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