Cause of death is determined to be the full and complete removal of the heart. Heart was not found at the scene on first inspection. All other organs are accounted for.

Aperture in the chest breaks 3 ribs, and seems to be the means of access to the heart. It does not go all the way through, only accessing the chest cavity. Plants grow from the orifice-- magical in nature?*

The deceased is not decomposing. The body remains relaxed and pliant-- no rigor mortis. There is no smell, no bloating, no miscoloration, but also no pulse or breathing.** This makes it difficult to determine a more exact time of death, but Itoh's last correspondence was at 12:06 PM. His body should be safe for further investigation, as no alterations need to be made to preserve the body for funeral services. Permission for inspection is open to all residents pending approval of the deceased's family and under supervision of Lorelie Grimm, and must be obtained through the Sheriff.

Notably, Itoh's tail has begun to split at the end. Not an unnatural wound or alteration.

*Request informed opinion on heart substituting, potentially magical flora.
**Is this a fae thing or an external influence? Seek second opinion.