Missing NY man's body was guarded by his loyal pit bull when he was found dead, police say

A man was found dead this week in northwestern New York, and his dog, still alive, was by his side, authorities say.

The man was found in Lewis County, according to the Lewis County Sheriff's Office.

A local camp owner found 39-year-old Cody M. Johnson’s body around 3:35 p.m. Wednesday, said investigator James Blackwell with the Lewis County Sheriff's Department Friday afternoon. His pit bull was right by his side.

“His dog Afton had not left … Cody alone and (the dog) was located in good health,” Blackwell wrote in an email, later adding that it seems like Johnson may have died due to being outdoors in cold weather.

Jeff Tompkins, Lewis County District Attorney and Coroner , confirmed to USA TODAY that an autopsy is scheduled for Saturday morning.

Johnson's dog initially wouldn't budge when investigators tried to move him but once they offered him water and biscuits, he calmed down, reported television station WWNY . His dog is being taken care of by a family friend but will eventually be given to family members from North Carolina, WWNY reported.

The man was reported missing Sunday afternoon, the sheriff’s office announced on Facebook Sunday . He was last seen at 2:30 a.m. Saturday at his home in Watson, about 95 miles northeast of Syracuse. He made a phone call at 11:30 a.m. that day, and that’s the last time anyone heard from him.

Authorities also said Sunday that his dog, a pit bull with a black and white harness, was missing.

“Cody may be on foot walking in the area, which is heavily wooded,” the sheriff’s office wrote, asking for help finding him.

New York State Forest Rangers helped with the search.

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Remembering Cody Johnson

Loved ones shared thoughts about Johnson’s passing, remembering him as kind when he felt comfortable opening up to people.

“You impacted many lives in many ways,” wrote one Facebook user. “You were such a kind guy and you didn’t come out of your shell for just anyone. I’m glad to have gotten to know you. I’ll never forget you.”

The poster added that they’re glad Afton , his dog, is OK but also that he caught the attention of people who could help find Johnson.

“He’s such a loyal dog that he stayed with you until you were found,” the Facebook user added.

This story has been updated to clarify a quote from the sheriff's department.

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Follow her on Twitter at @SaleenMartin or email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Missing NY man's body was guarded by his loyal pit bull when he was found dead, police say