Wapato teacher under investigation found dead in apparent suicide

WAPATO — A Wapato Middle School teacher who authorities said was being investigated for possible improprieties involving a student was found dead Tuesday.

Michael Arreola appears to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, said Yakima County Coroner Maury Rice, who added an official ruling won't be made until a formal examination of the body today.

Arreola's body was discovered at a home in the 1800 block of Lateral 1 Road, Rice said. Friends who went to the home because they were concerned for his welfare reported the death to the Yakima County Sheriff's Office about 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, sheriff's officials said. Detectives will review the case.

Wapato police Chief Richard Sanchez said an investigation involving Arreola was opened after school officials last week raised concerns about e-mails sent to a female student.

Sanchez said investigators interviewed a female student this week but had not yet had contact with Arreola.

In a brief statement, Wapato schools Superintendent Becky Imler said she and her staff learned of Arreola's death shortly after classes were let out Tuesday for a regularly scheduled early release.

She said counseling services would be made available to students today but declined further comment except to say Arreola had been on leave. She would not say why.

"My deepest sympathy goes out to Mr. Arreola's family and friends," she said, adding, "Out of respect for his family and personal privacy, I won't comment further."