PORTLAND, Maine -- A nine-year veteran of the Portland Police Department is dead after his handgun discharged in what police are calling a tragic accident.

Investigators said Sgt. Robert Johnsey was apparently preparing his duty weapon for his next shift when it discharged late last night at his home in Westbrook. He died a short time later at Maine Medical Center.

The announcement was made by Portland Police Chief Timothy Burton, who said Johnsey's death was a sad and tragic moment for his department.

Burton indicated that the bullet probably hit an artery, but that the death is under investigation by the State Medical Examiner's Office. In accordance with routine procedure, such deaths are classified by the state medical examiner as suspicious pending a state police investigation.

Johnsey, who was 37, is survived by his wife, Carol, and their two children, ages 12 and 9.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete.