Teen's body found in La Salle Co. creek

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OTTAWA – La Salle County authorities are investigating the death Wednesday of an 18-year-old South Barrington youth.

La Salle County Sheriff's deputies said the body of Brandon R. Kleinvehn was found near a small creek in Ophir Township, near Triumph, and that a black Jeep Cherokee was at the entrance to a field.

Deputies said it appeared the victim, who had been reported missing Tuesday evening, died as the result of a self-initiated fire. The autopsy was scheduled for Thursday.

A witness told deputies he saw the Jeep at that location about 8 p.m. Tuesday, but did not see anyone in the area of the vehicle.

Participating in the investigation with deputies are the La Salle County Coroner's office, Illinois Crime Scene personnel, and the State Fire Marshal's office.