The caretaker of the Western Illinois Youth Camp was found dead today at Lake Jacksonville, apparently of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.


Police were called to Lake Jacksonville about 9 a.m. after a body was found floating in the lake. Members of the Morgan County Search and Rescue Dive team retrieved the body and authorities said there was a gunshot wound to the head.


Coroner Jeff Lair identified man as Casey McDaniel, 28, of rural Jacksonville. Authorities said a small-caliber handgun was found in the water near the dock and there were several notes written to family members at his residence.


An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield. Jacksonville police and the county coroner are investigating the death.


Funeral arrangements are pending. Williamson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.