Man killed by pack of dogs in North Carolina; owner charged with murder, deputies say
By Stephanie Moore
Click here for updates on this story
DAVIDSON COUNTY, N.C. (WYFF) — A North Carolina man died after being attacked by a “large pack of canines” and now the dogs’ owner has been charged with murder, according to authorities.
The Davidson County Sheriff’s Office said Michael Bodenheimer, 73, was found dead in his front yard on Nov. 18.
They said Bodenheimer had sustained severe injuries and was beyond the possibility of life-saving intervention.
Preliminary findings indicated that his injuries were consistent with an attack by a large pack of canines, according to deputies.
Deputies and detectives said during the investigation they found the pack of aggressive canines at a neighboring property.
The animal control division said they captured 17 dogs, identified as mixed-breed pit bulls.
The animals were euthanized and taken to a local veterinary facility, where necropsies were conducted.
The examinations of the canines revealed evidence confirming their involvement in the attack of Bodenheimer.
An autopsy conducted on Bodenheimer determined that he died as a result of injuries sustained in the mauling from the canines.
According to authorites, the owner of the dogs, 56-year-old Elaina Bryant, was determined through the investigation to have been grossly negligent in the care and control of the animals.
Bryant was charged with second-degree murder and ten counts of felony animal abuse.
Bodenheimer’s family released the following statement after his death:
“Our family is heartbroken by the loss of our father. He was deeply loved, and his absence has left a pain that words cannot fully express.
We are aware that charges have been filed in connection with his death. At this time, we ask for privacy as we continue to grieve and support one another. We have full confidence in the legal process and will allow it to move forward without further comment.
Our focus remains on honoring our father’s life, his values, and the love he shared with those around him. We appreciate the support, prayers, and kindness that have been extended to our family during this incredibly difficult time.”
Bodenheimer was a member of the Fair Grove Fire Department. They released the following statement:
“Mike was a long time member of the Fair Grove Fire Department serving the Fair Grove community for many years. This particular incident involving one of our own has hit the department pretty hard since several of our current members served with him . Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends as well as our own members. “
Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.