MUNCIE, Ind. -- Authorities say three pit bulls mauled a 62-year-old man who was found dead in the basement of his Muncie home.Police say Chester R. Jordan was found dead Friday afternoon by his daughter's boyfriend. Jordan suffered from dementia and was alive when his daughter left the house that morning.

Police say Chester R. Jordan was found dead Friday afternoon by his daughter's boyfriend. Jordan suffered from dementia and was alive when his daughter left the house that morning.

Delaware County Coroner James Clevenger Jr. said he believed the dogs either contributed or were responsible for Jordan's death. He said Jordan was repeatedly bitten by the dogs, but he would not rule out other medical issues until an autopsy was completed.

Animal control officers removed the three adult pit bulls and six puppies from the home. The animal shelter will hold the dogs for 10 days for observation, and they could be euthansized.