Officials reported that a man, Cody M. Johnson, was discovered dead in northwestern New York, being guarded by his loyal Pit Bull. The 39-year-old was found in Lewis County by a local camp owner, per USA TODAY.
James Blackwell of the Lewis County Sheriff’s Department wrote in an email,
“His dog Afton had not left … Cody alone, and [the dog] was located in good health.”
Blackwell also wrote that it appears the 39-year-old likely died from exposure to the cold weather while outdoors. However, an autopsy is scheduled for Saturday morning, according to the Lewis County District Attorney and Coroner, Jeff Tompkins.
Johnson’s dog resisted moving until investigators offered him water and biscuits, calming him down. A family friend is caring for the dog, which will go to Johnson’s relatives in North Carolina. Johnson was reported missing Sunday afternoon after last being seen at home in Watson early Saturday morning. He made a phone call later on that morning, which was his last communication.
#Clique, let’s keep Cody M. Johnson’s family in our thoughts and prayers!