Airen Andula, a 13-year-old from Pleasanton, Kansas, died from multiple dog bite injuries, as confirmed by the Wyandotte County Coroner’s Office autopsy. His body was discovered on December 23, 2025, in a remote creek bed in Bates County, Missouri—about 30 miles from home—two days after he vanished while biking to feed a neighbor’s pets.
Suspect and Charges
Damon Leonard, 47, from Pleasanton, faces charges in both states:
- Kansas (Linn County): Interference with law enforcement, criminal desecration, and having a vicious dog at large.
- Missouri (Bates County): Abandonment of a corpse; he’s held on $100,000 cash-only bond and pleaded not guilty on December 23.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Leonard called Bates County authorities on December 23, admitting he transported Andula’s body from Kansas to Missouri, dumped it in the creek bed, and returned home. No plea details yet for Kansas charges, and it’s unclear if he has an attorney.
Family Response
Andula’s mother, Anita Gunn, described the ordeal as a “big nightmare,” telling KSHB it’s “unbelievable” and hard to accept as real.
This case highlights risks of unleashed dogs and quick law enforcement coordination across state lines. Local news like KSHB and PEOPLE have ongoing coverage—any specific aspect you’d like more details on, such as similar cases or legal precedents?
