The body discovered in a supply shed on deer hunting property in Beauregard Parish has been identified as 33-year-old Ryan Heflin, a DeRidder man reported missing since January, authorities said.

Sheriff Mark Herford said Heflin’s remains were positively identified through dental records with the help of the Calcasieu Parish Forensic Center.

Heflin’s body was found Saturday, Sept. 10, by hunters working on the property, Herford said.

Herford told the American Press the shed had been left unlocked, and the property had not been accessed by hunters for several months.

He made no comments as to any suspected cause of death, but said the investigation is ongoing.

“The sheriff’s office offers our deepest condolences, and our prayers, for Ryan’s family and friends in this difficult time,” Herford said.

Heflin was reported missing by his parents on Jan. 31.

Investigators had been actively searching for Heflin and following up on all possible leads since his disappearance until the time his body was discovered, Herford said.

Anyone with information regarding Heflin’s disappearance is encouraged to contact detectives at 337-463-3281.