The deceased man discovered last week in the 100 block of Collins Street has been identified as David Meinerding, 67, of Lufkin. Lufkin Police officers encountered aggressive dogs near Meinerding’s body upon arrival at the scene around 5:15 a.m. on July 2. Due to an officer being bitten, two of the dogs had to be dispatched.
The completion of Meinerding’s autopsy will clarify any potential involvement the dogs had in his death. While the incident remains under investigation, foul play is not suspected.
The injured officer received medical treatment for the bite at a local urgent care facility and has since returned to duty.
Detectives confirmed Meinerding’s identity through fingerprint analysis and have notified his family, who reside out of state.
