LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The Las Vegas veterinarian who has gone missing at Lake Mead left his truck and phone behind, police said.
Dr. Shawn Frehner, 56, disappeared around 9 a.m. on Sunday, April 6. That is when his father last spoke to him, according to a report obtained by FOX5. Nobody else has heard from the veterinarian since.
Frehner is facing horse abuse allegations in Nye County after a video surfaced online showing him kicking a horse in the face.
Police spoke to Shawn’s father, Rex Frehner, who said he talked to his son several times the morning he went missing. Frehner told police Shawn is an equine veterinarian who was working with one of his horses that morning. Rex mentioned Shawn was having a “particularly hard time” with the horse.
Rex mentions the video seen on social media, stating he was concerned for his son’s safety.
His father points out that Shawn does not have any medical or mental conditions and does not require medication, the report said. Rex also told police Shawn was not known to use drugs or alcohol and never would hurt himself or others.
The report shows Dr. Frehner’s white Ram truck was found unoccupied at Hemenway Harbor. His keys, wallet and cell phone were left inside the truck.
Rex told police his son does not own a boat, which is why he does not know what led Shawn to the lake.
The veterinarian’s father believes his son owns a gun, but does not know for certain if his son would bring it with him.
Police have not shared details on a firearm found at this time, and it is unclear if a gun was also found inside the truck.
As for the alleged horse abuse, Nye County sources tell FOX5 it is still an open investigation because they need to interview Frehner. If Frehner is found dead, then the case will go away. However, if Frehner is never found, it will be considered a suspended case with an arrest warrant issued.
National Park Service officials said Wednesday it was continuing its search for Frehner with other agencies.
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