North Port police officer found dead in patrol car

North Port Police Department is mourning the loss of one of their own. 

Patrolman First Class, Dennis Gonthier, 57, passed away unexpectedly Saturday morning.

Police say he was found unresponsive in his patrol vehicle as he prepared to start his shift.  He was taken to a local hospital where doctors tried to revive him, but were unsuccessful.

Preliminary results appear Gonthier died of natural causes.

Officer Gonthier was a 14-year veteran with the city of North Port and is survived by his wife and three children.

Funeral arrangements are being finalized.