A marijuana-growing operation in Edina was uncovered this week near the 50th and France business district, and a death is part of the investigation, authorities said Thursday.

About 30 plants and powerful heat lights were found Tuesday inside the home in the 4200 block of W. 50th Street, said Edina Sgt. Brian Tholen, who said the Southwest Hennepin Drug Task Force is leading the "open and active investigation."

The home's lone resident, 37-year-old Paul B. Schneider, killed himself that same day, said his father.

"He was pretty depressed, and he had a lot of things on his mind," said Dale Schneider, of Cologne, who added that he was unaware of the police action at his son's home.

Paul Schneider's criminal history in Minnesota includes convictions on a felony weapons charge and two instances of drunken driving.

Lori Miller said she discovered her brother's body Tuesday and called 911.

"That's what brought police" to the home, Miller said.

Miller said she has no idea whether the drug activity at the home played a role in Schneider taking his life.

"There was no note," she said. "We are asking questions, too."

PAUL WALSH