A Michigan man was tragically beaten to death on Christmas Eve, reportedly while trying to save a dog from being abused.
Robert Cavanaugh, 60, was found unresponsive in a residential area of Madison Heights, Michigan, on the evening of December 24... Continue reading here ▶
Police said he was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Rodney Beasley, 68, has been arrested in connection with the incident, according to authorities.
Cavanaugh’s family set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses, stating that he was trying to stop a man from beating a dog when the man attacked him with a pipe.
Neighbors also told Fox 2 News that Cavanaugh, described as an “animal lover,” had stepped in to rescue the dog.
Police have not confirmed whether the attack was related to saving a dog, saying the details are still under investigation.
“Bobby had a heart of gold and would do whatever he could to help the community. He never asked for anything in return,” his family wrote in the fundraiser. They also shared his love for animals, adding that he always helped them whenever he could.
As of Tuesday afternoon, the fundraiser had raised over $28,000 for his burial expenses.
Beasley is facing a charge of assault with a dangerous weapon, police confirmed. Information about his plea or attorney was not immediately available.