WAPATO -- A Wapato teacher on paid-leave -- most likely because of allegations he had a relationship with a student -- was found dead Tuesday morning.

The Yakima county coroner said Wapato Middle School eighth grade teacher, Michael Arreola, took his own life.

Police confirmed with Action News they were in the middle of investigating allegations the teacher may have had a relationship with a student.

School district superintendent Becky Imler confirmed Arreola had been put on paid-leave, but would not elaborate on the details.

Sources told Action News Arreola had been taken out of school as recently as last week, however, Imler would not confirm the time line.

An emailer to the Action News newsroom described Arreola as "well-liked" and "outgoing."

Imler told KIMA her "deepest sympathy" goes out to Arreola's family.

She said she heard from police Arreola took his own life Tuesday afternoon, after students had left on early-dismissal.

Counselors will be there for staff and students Wednesday.