WOODSTOCK – The Crystal Lake teen who committed suicide in a park likely had been there for a few days, McHenry County Coroner Dr. Anne Majewski said.

But because Adrian F. Salazar was exposed to the cold weather, it’s difficult to pinpoint the day he died, Majewski explained.

“At this point it’s impossible to tell exactly when he died or how long he’d been out there,” Majewski said. “... We do believe he was out there for several days.”

Majewski confirmed Wednesday that Salazar died from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. He was found dead in Canterbury Park on Monday with a gun nearby. The gun belonged to Salazar’s family, police confirmed.

Police had been searching for the Crystal Lake Central senior since he was reported missing on March 1.

His disappearance set off a soft lockdown at area schools last week. Police described Salazar as “despondent” and possibly in possession of a firearm, but later said he didn’t pose a threat to others.

Police are unclear exactly where, if he was alive, Salazar was during his weeklong disappearance. Crystal Lake Police Cmdr. Dan Dziewior said police were looking “nonstop” for Salazar. They interviewed his close friends and known associates, and followed up on all information that might lead to finding Salazar – without success.

Salazar’s surviving family members created a GoFundMe Web page, where his sister, Liz Salazar, described Adrian as a “good friend and loving brother.” Liz also said Adrian suffered from depression.

“He loved wrestling in school and doing track. He had many friends who he enjoyed spending time with along with spending time with his family,” Liz Salazar wrote.

She created the GoFundMe page on Tuesday to support the family’s funeral services.

As of late Wednesday night, 159 people had donated $7,875. A visitation was held Wednesday night at Davenport Funeral Home in Crystal Lake.

Majewski released a statement Wednesday stating that suicide is the U.S. third leading cause of death among those ages 15 to 24.

“Our county has many dedicated people committed to helping people of all ages at risk for suicide,” she said.

“We at the Coroner’s Office, pledge to continue to work with our partners to identify those at risk; those with prior history; the association of drugs, alcohol, motor vehicle accidents and fatalities; and how these very sad deaths can be avoided. Our hearts go out to all families affected by this tragic loss of life, “ Majewski said.

The McHenry County Crisis Line can be reached 24/7 at 800-892-8900 for those struggling with suicidal thoughts and mental health emergencies.