Lassen County Sheriff Dean Growdon released new details today in the homicide investigation surrounding the June death of Janesville veterinarian Richard Meinert.
Meinert was found dead at his Thompson Peak Veterinary Clinic in Janesville on the morning of June 23rd and according to Sheriff Growdon, evidence indicates that he interrupted a burglary in progress on the evening of June 22nd.
Growdon said that it appears a struggle ensued, during which Meinert was shot and killed.
“The Sheriff/Coroner’s Office has received all autopsy and toxicology reports from the Washoe County Medical Examiner’s Office with whom Lassen County Contracts for these services,” explained Growdon. “Based on the information included in the report and evidence at the scene the death is being officially classified as a homicide.”
The evidence investigators found at the scene indicated that Meinert was shot at close range and died from the injuries he sustained. The toxicology report established that there were no substances (drugs or alcohol) detected in his system.
The Sheriff’s Office continues to work this case from multiple directions including following up on all leads or tips coming in from the community, forensics and other investigative tools.
“We will continue to use all of the tools available to us until the murderer or murderers are brought to justice,” said Growdon.
