BELLE — Roger Sutherland, 61, of Belle was found dead July 2 at his home located in the 400 blocks of First Street in Belle.

Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman said Monday that he does not believe the public is in danger, but the investigation into the death is still ongoing.

“He was in a car crash and found in a ditch on Highway 28 near Mace’s Market around 11:30 p.m on June 28 and the family last talked to him via text on Sunday evening. He said he was battling a cold.”

Heitman added that the neighbor and realtor also did not see him all week and called the family to see if he was with them for the holiday. The family asked deputies to make entry and contact with Sutherland to check on him.

“That is when he was located face down in the kitchen,” Heitman said. “He had bruising on ribs and knees, so the coroner wanted an autopsy, but I do not suspect foul play. However, it is still under investigation.”

Heitman said he suspects the issue was mostly medical-related. Until the autopsy is completed though, he can’t say that for sure

“The autopsy is a precautionary measure,” Heitman said. “Even though it was in Osage County, we are investigating it because it is inside the Belle city limits.”

The autopsy will take place at the Boone County Medical Examiner’s office.