Isaiah Theis, 2-year-old missing Wis. boy, found dead in trunk, authorities say

(CBS) MINNEAPOLIS - A 2-year-old boy who was reported missing by his family in western Wisconsin Tuesday night was found dead inside the trunk of a vehicle less than 24 hours later, authorities say, according to CBS Minnesota.

Polk County Sheriff Peter Johnson confirmed that Isaiah Theis was found dead by a law enforcement officer just after 10 p.m. Wednesday. Johnson says the boy was found inside a vehicle that was located near the property where the boy lived in Centuria.

Isaiah had been reported missing around 7:30 p.m. Tuesday after playing with his 5-year-old brother, said the boys' father, Justin Theis.

The sheriff's office said that the vehicle in question had been "looked into" several times prior to the discovery. Searchers had reportedly been told that the vehicle was locked prior to the boy being reported missing and, therefore, he was unlikely to be found inside.

Isaiah's body was found after the owner of the car arrived to move the vehicle. It is unclear who the owner of the vehicle is or whether he or she has been questioned in connection with the investigation.

The sheriff's office says a full autopsy has been requested, adding that "it would be inappropriate for anyone to speculate as to the cause and nature of death until that examination has been done."

Police have not said whether they believe Isaiah's death is accidental or criminal.