Authorities believe the human remains found in the trunk of a car on Cindy Lane in Natchez belong to a man who was reported missing in Concordia Parish after a family member identified them.

According to Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office, Christopher Lee Sanders, 45, had been reported missing on Tuesday. His family stated he was last seen on April 4.

Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten said investigators had just received the missing person’s report when they received a call stating that his car may be on Cindy Lane, near U.S. 61 North in Natchez.

“We went out there to check today at approximately 10 a.m. this morning, and we were able to locate the victim’s vehicle. Upon approaching the vehicle, we could smell a strong odor emanating from the vehicle.”

Patten said other deputies were called and the remains were found inside the trunk. One individual in a nearby house was detained for questioning.

Coroner James Lee said the remains were about a week old, and no identification card was present.

“I’m hoping an autopsy will tell us more,” he said. “It’s a terrible situation.”

Patten said it’s still unclear whether the death was accidental or intentional until other persons of interest are questioned. Because of the type of car, Patten said it wouldn’t have been possible to open the trunk from the inside, but someone still could have climbed inside and closed it.

“His body was not bound, tapped or gagged or anything of that nature. He was just lying in the trunk, deceased. At this time, his cause of death is undetermined, nor how he got into the trunk or the type of investigation that needs to be conducted until we get other persons of interest in custody. As of right now, there is a full investigation going on to determine what the cause of the death was, whether it was accidental or intentional. We have spoken with the family and our hearts and prayers go out to them. This is still an ongoing investigation.”