(CNN) – The family of a Texas woman who was brutally murdered last year is rejoicing after her killer was sentenced to life in prison this week.
Relatives say they owe the justice to her dog, Titan.
Investigators say they discovered the body of 26-year-old Mandy Rose Reynolds “burned beyond recognition” in April 2023.
A medical examiner said Reynolds died from a gunshot wound to the head. It’s a bullet they say came from her cousin’s gun.
Standing next to the body was her dog Titan, who refused to stop barking or leave the area.
After animal control identified the dog, they were able to tie Titan to the victim.
The district attorney’s office said Titan’s microchip was used to determine Reynolds lived in a San Marcos apartment, which was found to have been completely emptied. Her vehicle was also missing.
Twenty-nine-year-old Derek Daigneault was later found driving the victim’s car in Kansas when he was apprehended.
A Texas judge sentenced Daigneault to life in prison last week.
So far, a motive for the killing is unknown.
As for Titan, he is now being taken care of by the victim’s best friend.
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