Final answer:
Based on the physical signs of decomposition, the person likely died between 11:45 pm on Monday, January 11th, and 1:45 am on Tuesday, January 12th.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the given information, we can estimate the time of death by looking at the physical signs of decomposition. Rigor mortis is the stiffening of muscles after death and it usually sets in within a few hours and disappears within 12-48 hours. The presence of rigor mortis in the face, chest, and arms suggests that the person died within the past 48 hours. Livor mortis, also known as lividity, is the pooling of blood in the lower parts of the body after death. When it is evident and does not disappear, it indicates that the body has been in the same position for an extended period of time. Livor mortis usually starts to appear within 1-2 hours after death and becomes fixed within 8-12 hours. Therefore, the presence of livor mortis in the corpse suggests that the person died at least 8-12 hours ago. However, the body temperature of 86F can affect these estimations. Normally, a body loses heat at an average rate of 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit per hour after death. By using a formula called the Henssge Nomogram, we can estimate the time of death based on body temperature. Considering the body temperature of 86F, it indicates that the person died approximately 4-6 hours prior to the discovery of the body at 5:45 am on Tuesday, January 12th. Therefore, the person likely died between 11:45 pm on Monday, January 11th, and 1:45 am on Tuesday, January 12th.