Police are investigating the death of a toddler in the City of Erie.

The child was found dead outside in the 300 block of E. 16th St. on Thursday.

Police said the child was two-and-a-half years old.

Officers held the scene for hours Thursday morning as they investigated.

The Erie County Coroner's Office performed an autopsy Thursday afternoon, but there is no definitive cause of death at this time.

The coroner said there are no signs of foul play, but police said the child most likely succumbed to the elements.

Deputy Chief Rick Lorah from the Erie Police Department says although the cause of death is not completely confirmed, investigators believe the toddler "succumbed to the elements."