Lexington owner found dead after animal welfare check leads to missing person investigation

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — A call about horses without water in Lexington led to a much larger investigation this week, after animal control officers discovered the property owner dead and several animals in need of care.

According to Lexington-Fayette Animal Care & Control, the agency responded to a property where no one could reach the owner. Officers began providing water and care to the horses on-site.

While checking the grounds, they also found 14 dogs in concerning conditions — some tied inside a car, one tethered to a tree, and others loose on the property. Officers transported all the dogs to the shelter for care.

Animal control contacted Lexington Police as concerns grew for the owner’s wellbeing. Police later confirmed the owner was deceased.

The agency said the initial call may have saved the animals’ lives, and emphasized how animal control officers are often the first to discover emergencies or deaths while responding to calls.

ABC 36 News Now is in contact with Lexington police for more information on the owner’s death.

“All the animals received care and remain safe,” officials said. “This call made a difference.”