According to the opinion that says that Pinchus was a Kohen, how could he be under the same roof as a dead body?
Avi orlan, Boca Raton, FL
Dear Avi,
They didn't die immediately. Only after Pinchas lifted them on his sword out of the tent - see Midrash Rabah 20:26 (end of Parshas Pinchas) Miracle #10 - Hash-m watched their lives in order not to make Pinchas Tamei.
All the best,
Reuven Weiner