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WEST VALLEY CITY — The dog that police say a West Valley man died defending has been found safe.
Since news spread that 47-year-old Jeremy Hardman had died in what police called a deliberate attack by a man Hardman had confronted about allegedly mistreating a dog, West Valley police said in a news release Thursday that numerous inquiries have come in about the animal's well-being.
West Valley police have since arrested Aaron Hosman, 40, the man accused of flipping a U-turn in his car and running over Hardman, but said they were unable to find the friend believed to own the dog.
"We are pleased to report that through the diligence of our investigators and officers, both the owner of the dog and the dog, Buddi the Chihuahua, have now been located," police announced in a statement.
According to the police statement, Buddi has been examined by West Valley City Animal Services and is in good condition. He has been returned to his owner.
"We appreciate the passion and compassion that drives our investigators and officers to do the very best job possible for victims, their families and even, as in Buddi's case, the smallest among us," the statement said.
Charges have not been filed against Hosman, who is being held in the Salt Lake County Jail for investigation of murder, obstruction of justice and numerous automobile offenses.
The Humane Society of Utah has praised Hardman, calling him a hero. Notes, flowers and cards thanking him for standing up for "man's best friend" mark the intersection where he died, and Hardman's mother, Judy Crocker, said volunteers and their pets have asked to line the entrance to his memorial service.
Crocker said she, too, has been concerned about the dog her son had spoken up for, and she was relieved to learn Buddi is doing well. Hardman has had a deep love for all animals and especially dogs since childhood, she said.
"We had rats, we had rabbits, we had cats, we had dogs, we had birds, we had hermit crabs. If it lived, he loved it," Crocker said. "We were just best friends his whole life."
Funeral services for Hardman are scheduled Saturday at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 S. Redwood Road, West Jordan, according to Hardman's obituary. A vigil for pets and their owners will follow at 6 p.m. at the Millrace Dog Park, 1150 W. 5400 South, Taylorsville.
