Irvine teacher dies in classroom

An autopsy Tuesday determined that an Irvine teacher who collapsed and died in his classroom suffered from cardiovascular disease, authorities said.

Students at Woodbridge High School found the teacher, Kent Bentley, during lunchtime Monday and alerted staff members, said Ian Hanigan, spokesman for the Irvine Unified School District.

“A staff member administered CPR,” he said. “But despite their best efforts, he couldn’t be revived.”

Bentley, 46, taught English and coached wrestling at Woodbridge for 12 years. Additional counselors and psychologists were sent to the school to assist students and staff.

“Obviously, there are still a lot of questions right now,” Hanigan said. “Our focus is on helping students and staff through the initial days.”

Bentley is survived by his wife, Mary, and two daughters, Jill and Katie.