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Last updated on Friday, February 28, 2014
(HELTONVILLE) - Lawrence County Coroner Rob Herr says 43-year-old Rodney R. Allender died from blunt force tramua.
Lawrence County Police are investigating the murder.
According to police logs, police received a 911 call at 9:42 p.m. reporting that a person had arrived at the home and found a family member who they believed was dead.
Officers and an IU Health Hospital ambulance crew and Pleasant Run Volunteer Fire Department first responders rushed to the home in 1700 block of Dutch Ridge Road.
According to Lawrence County Sheriff Sam Craig, his son and girlfriend found Allender in the home.
Allender owned and operated Allender Excavating & Logging.
Friends say Rodney was hard working, a "hoot to be around" and a good-hearted country boy that will be missed.
Craig says Allender lived alone in the home.
"We are still questioning several people," Craig says.
And officers were on the scene most of the day gathering evidence.
"There were some things that were noticeable that we observed at the scene," Craig told WLKY TV in Louisville, who was in Bedford and Heltonville for most of the day. "Right now, we are not going into any details as far as any specifics at this point and time."
Neighbors say they're are extremely nervous.
"I came out in my truck and got my shotgun and loaded it and I got a 357 Magnum there laying under the dog's bed right there beside me," said nearby resident Terry Fleener
Craig doesn't think there should be a great need for concern, but residents should remain watchful.
"I think they should continue to be cautious because unfortunately even in our small community things like this happen from time to time," Craig said.
Indiana State Police were also called to assist with the investigation.
Craig ask that anyone who would have been in the area at the time, or anyone with possible information, please contact the sheriff's department.
The department can be called at 275-3316, or people can call a tip line at 277-2020.
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