ST. LOUIS–(KMOX)–Authorities are investigating the death of a former major league and semi-professional baseball player from St. Charles County whose body was found Sunday night under the Peruque Creek Bridge.

Kent Gerst, 24, a graduate of Fort Zumwalt West High School, was a 2006 draft pick by the Chicago White Sox, and more recently played for the semi-pro Gateway Grizzlies in 2011.

The O’Fallon Police Department says Gerst was reported missing around six o’clock Sunday night. He had not returned to his residence the night before. An investigation revealed he was last seen Saturday night around 10:15 in the area of West Terra Lane and Peruque Crossing Court.

Officers combed the area and found Gerst dead under the bridge around 10:41 p.m.

An autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death. The O’Fallon Police Department would not comment on any possible cause of death. Detectives are investigating Gerst’s activities prior to his disappearance, a statement said.

Initial reports from the medical examiner indicated Gerst may have fallen from a bluff.

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