Authorities say police chief killed self

PETERSBURG -- Authorities say a central Illinois police chief has killed himself.

Authorities say Petersburg police Chief Denny Martin shot himself Sunday after an officer came to his home to investigate a disturbance.

Menard County State's Attorney Kenneth Baumgarten says Martin had walked into another room where he was alone. The officer then heard a gunshot.

Sheriff Chuck Jones says the preliminary investigation indicates Martin died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Baumgarten says Illinois State Police are investigating. Authorities would not discuss what might have led to the suicide.

Petersburg is about 20 miles northwest of Springfield.