The Austin community reels after the body of missing Bell County man and Uber driver, Ernest Anderson, was found dead in his vehicle on the east side of the city. Anderson, 39, was reported missing since April 11 when he was last spotted heading to pick up a fare near Riverside Drive, as per the Nolanville Police Department. KVUE reports that his sister has requested privacy for the family to mourn their loss, saying there was "no foul play" suspected at this time.

According to the Austin Police Department, Anderson's black 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander was discovered on April 17 in East Austin with his body inside. Officials confirmed the identity following an investigation by the medical examiner. The news has triggered increased scrutiny on the safety of rideshare drivers, with police indicating someone had managed to sell Anderson's SIM card after finding his phone, and also used his bank cards for suspicious transactions along Riverside Drive. This information was obtained via Anderson's sister, Charla Anderson-Pawlata, who detailed two attempts at an H-E-B and small gas stations.

Sources including FOX 7 Austin note that the Austin Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Anderson's death and the activities following his disappearance. They've urged the public to come forth with any information that could shed light on this tragic event.

The Nolanville Police Department is working closely with Austin authorities to understand the events that led up to the unfortunate discovery of Anderson's body. The Austin Police Department requests that any person with information to please come forward and assist in piecing together this bewildering case. Those with relevant information should quickly contact Austin police or Nolanville police at 254-698-6334.