VANCOUVER, Wash. (KATU) — The Clark County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that Charles Gardiner, the Interim Chief of the Cowlitz Tribal Public Safety Department, was found dead in a vehicle following a reported burglary in Northeast Vancouver.

On April 23, at approximately 9:43 p.m., deputies responded to a call about an occupied residential burglary in the 9000 block of NE 79th Street. The caller reported a man inside the residence, who then ran from the area.

Law enforcement officers searching the area discovered a vehicle with a deceased person inside, matching the description of the subject. Evidence indicates that Gardiner shot himself.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit is actively investigating the case, including the circumstances surrounding Gardiner's presence at the residence.

"Due to the nature of the investigation, additional details are currently unavailable," the CCSO said in a press release.

The Cowlitz Indian Tribe said they were made aware of Gardiner's death and shared a statement with KATU News.

We regret to inform you of an incident involving the Interim Chief of the Tribal Public Safety Department, Charles Gardiner, that resulted in Chief Gardiner taking his own life. The Clark County Sheriff's Office is investigating the case and the circumstances surrounding it. We will share additional updates as we are able. Thank you for your understanding during this difficult time. In unity, the Chairman of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, William Iyall"

Editor's note: If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.