Authorities are investigating the death of a University of Southern Mississippi student.

Forrest County Deputy Coroner Ronnie Kemp told The Hattiesburg American that 29-year-old Joshua Lee Stephenson of Corinth was found about 10 a.m. Monday inside an apartment.

Kemp said he was unable to verify if Stephenson died of natural causes or foul play. An autopsy was ordered.

Hattiesburg police said Stephenson had apparently been dead for some time.

Sgt. Allen Murray said he did not know if a missing person report had been filed or if any welfare concern calls had been placed regarding Stephenson.