UPDATE: Community reacts to death of 12-year-old boy, autopsy results released

UPDATE 5:44 P.M.: The autopsy results have been released, and it has been determined that the cause of death was a single gunshot wound to the head.

The Cooper County Sheriff’s Office and Missouri State Highway Patrol are still investigating the death.

ORIGINAL STORY: Kim Oelrichs, superintendent of Otterville R-VI School District, sent out a letter to faculty members Monday about the death of a 12-year-old student.

Oelrichs said the letter was to help teachers tell students about the death of Ayden Millsap, and let them know that counselors are available to talk about the situation.

“Saturday night, Otterville student, Ayden Millsap, passed away. Cooper county Sheriff Department and Highway Patrol are investigating. We do not have many details to share and want to make certain that conversations we have with each others are about facts, rather than rumors or hearsay. What we do need to have is lots of support and understanding for each other. Please talk with the teachers and staff for help. We also have counselors from neighboring schools here to help you understand your feelings. If you need assistance, please ask,” according to the letter.

People in the community have shown their support by posting on Facebook and donating to a GoFundMe account created to help pay funeral costs.

Cooper County Sheriff’s Office said Ayden died from an apparent gunshot wound.

The autopsy was scheduled for Monday.

ABC 17 News is still waiting for the results.