A 15-year-old juvenile reported missing from Deaconess Illinois Medical Center in Marion has been found dead, according to the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department.
Authorities said the teen walked away from the hospital at approximately 7:36 p.m. Saturday. Multiple law enforcement agencies conducted an extensive search throughout the day and evening but were unable to locate him.
At approximately 5:02 p.m. Sunday, deputies responded to a residence in the 9000 block of Pentecost Road after receiving a report of a male subject who appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound. Investigators said the homeowner had returned to the residence after being away since the previous day and discovered the juvenile.
The Williamson County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. Detectives are being assisted by Illinois State Police Crime Scene investigators and the Williamson County Coroner’s Office.
Authorities have not released the juvenile’s identity. Sheriff Jeff Diederich said investigators are working diligently to determine exactly what occurred as the investigation continues.