ANTONITO — The Conejos County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a 57-year-old man whose body was discovered on Tuesday, Feb. 19, in the 5400 block of County Road 13 in Antonito. 

At approximately 9:12 a.m. on Feb. 19, the Colorado State Patrol Dispatch received a call reporting a possible deceased individual in a ditch along County Road 13. The caller, who was going to an appointment, stated he noticed the body and immediately contacted the authorities. 

Upon arrival at the scene, deputies located the body of a 57-year-old male. Lacerations from possible dog bites were observed on the victim's body. The victim has been identified by the Conejos County Coroner as Franklin Baca. 

Investigators are exploring several possibilities surrounding the man's death, including the possibility of an animal attack. Two dogs are being considered as possible factors: a neighbor's pit bull and the victim's own dog, a Labrador mix. 

A search warrant has been obtained to collect blood swabs from the neighbor’s pit bull. These samples will be compared to the victim's blood to determine if the dog was involved in the incident. Swabs were also collected from the victim's Labrador mix. 

A preliminary investigation suggests the victim may have been walking his Labrador mix shortly before his death. Investigators are working to determine whether the victim suffered a medical episode prior to being attacked or if the injuries were solely the result of an animal attack. 

The Conejos County Sheriff's Office wishes to thank the following agencies for their assistance: The Colorado Bureau of Investigation, the 12th Judicial District Attorney’s Office and the Colorado Department of Wildlife.  

The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.