A man who was found dead after going missing was found beside his dog who was keeping watch.
Cody Johnson, 39, of Watson, was last seen at his home in the early hours of Saturday, October 12, at approximately 2:30AM, according to the Lewis County Sheriff's Office.
Both Johnson and his dog, a pit bull, went missing, prompting concern from his family and friends.
Johnson made a phone call around 11:30AM on the same day, which would be the last time anyone heard from him.
His disappearance triggered a search, with local authorities and New York State Forest Rangers scouring the heavily wooded area near his home.
"Cody may be on foot walking in the area, which is heavily wooded. New York State Forest Rangers are assisting with the search," the Sheriff's Office stated in an initial press release.
On Wednesday, October 16, after days of searching, authorities confirmed Johnson's body had been discovered, with his dog found alive by his side. The news was reported by USA Today and CBS affiliate WWNY-TV.
Sheriff Michael Carpinelli of the Lewis County Sheriff's Office told PEOPLE that Johnson's body was located "anywhere from about 6 to 7 miles away from his home."
Remarkably, his dog stayed with him throughout the ordeal.
"The dog stayed with him the entire time," Carpinelli confirmed.
Investigator James Blackwell revealed to USA Today that Johnson's body was found by a local camp owner.
In a statement to WWNY-TV, Sheriff Carpinelli reflected on the loyalty of Johnson's dog, adding: "I think it’s in a way a little comforting knowing he wasn’t alone out there. The dog that had been with him for quite a while - his companion and the loyalty he had with Cody. He stayed with him all those days and those evenings.”
The dog, initially reluctant to leave its owner's side, is now being cared for by a family friend, according to reports.
An autopsy conducted by Lewis County District Attorney and Coroner Jeffery G. Tompkins determined that Johnson died from hypothermia.
His death has been ruled accidental.
Donna Payne Foley commented on the Lewis County Sheriff's Office Facebook post, saying she is Johnson's mother.
"I am Cody Johnson’s mother," she said. "I would like to personally thank each and every person for all their time and efforts in the search for my son.
"I will always be eternally grateful for the time that everyone had given. It certainly was not the outcome that everyone had hoped and prayed for but as a family we can all start the healing process."
Johnson's obituary reads: "Cody's family is very appreciative for the effort, work, and care shown during this devasting time.
"The family and friends will celebrate Cody's life and impact privately. We would also like to thank his friends for the many loving comments shared about Cody.
"If Cody could only read all the wonderful love that was expressed for him. We ask that you honor Cody and Afton by donating to your local Humane Society/Animal Shelter."
Our thoughts are with Johnson's family at this difficult time.
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