Chicago education leader's death a suicide

CHICAGO, Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Initial reports indicate that Chicago's school board president shot and killed himself along the Chicago River early Monday, authorities say.

The body of Michael Scott was found on the bank of the river around 3 a.m. Monday morning near the city's Merchandise Mart building after his family reported him missing the day before, the Chicago Tribune reported.

Police reportedly used Scott's cellphone to track down his body and his car, and authorities surmise he fell forward toward the river after shooting himself in the head. A gun was found near the body, authorities indicated.

The newspaper said the Cook County medical examiner's office had yet to finish its investigation into Scott's death and had not officially determined the cause of death.

Scott, 60, a successful businessman, recently said he didn't think he'd remain in the board president post much longer because he saw his appointment as an interim measure, Chicago Teachers Union President Marilyn Stewart said in a statement Monday.

"I found Michael to be someone who worked with the union in a cooperative manner and who was willing to hear the other side of any issue," Stewart said.

U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan, the former chief executive officer of the Chicago Public Schools, issued a statement saying: "I am shocked and saddened by the sudden death of my friend and colleague Michael Scott. Michael cared passionately about public education and made many courageous decisions as president of the board."