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Autopsy finds missing Colorado deputy died of self-inflicted gunshot

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VAIL, Colo. (AP) — A western Colorado coroner says a sheriff's deputy who was the subject of a three-day search last week died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Searchers found the body of 26-year-old Tayler Esslinger in his truck on June 28 in Garfield County. A Colorado National Guard helicopter crew had spotted his vehicle.

READ MORE: Missing Gypsum man found dead inside his pickup truck, Eagle County Sheriff’s Office says

Esslinger was an Eagle County deputy and spent 12 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Gypsum Fire Protection District.

The Vail Daily reports Garfield County Coroner Robert Glassmire said Tuesday he ruled Esslinger's death a suicide.

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Information from: Vail Daily, http://www.vaildaily.com