Homeless Man Who Died at Venice Dog Park Identified

The identity of the homeless man who died Oct. 19 at Westminster Dog Park in Venice has been released by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office.

Vernon Reese Clay, 56, died at the homeless encampment at the dog park, 1234 Pacific Ave., Capt. John Kadis said.

The coroner’s office received the report of the death at 8:39 a.m. Oct. 19, he said. Clay has been a longtime fixture at the park, according commenters on Venice311.org. His next of kin has been notified.

The cause of death is pending toxicology report, which may take up to eight to 10 weeks, Kadis said.