A murder investigation has been launched after one of two bodies found at the burnt-out Shropshire home of missing businessman Christopher Foster was identified as his wife, police said.
A post-mortem examination revealed Jill Foster, who was identified through dental records, died as a result of a gunshot wound to the head.
The second body, said to be an adult man, has not been formally identified and no cause of death had been established.
Superintendent Gary Higgins, of West Mercia Constabulary, said further tests will be carried out and added: "Clearly we will be seeking to establish whether it is the body of Christopher Foster."
Mr Foster, Mrs Foster and their 15-year-old daughter Kirstie were last seen at a friend's barbecue on Monday before they returned home to Osbaston House that evening.
Supt Higgins said the two bodies were found close to one another and a rifle was found nearby. A gun has been identified as a .22 rim fire rifle which was legitimately owned by Christopher Foster.
A dog found near the bodies died of a gunshot wound, a post-mortem examination revealed. Three horses and three dogs found in outbuildings in the mansion's grounds had also been shot dead.
Supt Higgins said: "Further tests are needed to establish whether the rifle found was the one used in the murder and to kill the animals."
Spent and unspent gun cartridges were found scattered around the grounds of the property.
Search teams were forced to withdraw from the main part of the house on Saturday night due to fears the walls might collapse but the search was later able to resume. Supt Higgins said it may take several days, or even weeks, to complete the examination of the house due to its size and the amount of debris inside.
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