EAST FRANKLIN TWP, Armstrong County — A 54-year-old man found unresponsive early Sunday morning in a wrecked car at the East Village Mall suffered an apparent medical emergency, authorities said.

William Patton of Kittanning later died at nearby ACMH Hospital in East Franklin Township.

State police said their investigation continues. But Armstrong County Corner Brian Myers said Patton’s death was due to unspecified natural causes.

Myers said Patton suffered from undisclosed medical problems. No autopsy was conducted.

Troopers were called to the mall about 12:45 a.m. for a report of man believed to be unconscious in a 1995 Toyota Corolla. Police said they found Patton with shallow breathing and a weak pulse.

An ambulance crew treated Patton before he was taken to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Investigators said it appeared the victim was driving the car in the mall when he suffered a health issue. The vehicle struck a metal pole in front of the Tractor Supply Co. store.

The car, after hitting the pole, continued toward the McDonald’s restaurant before coming to a stop. Police said Patton managed to open the driver’s door and tried to get out.

However, according to a police report, he was only able to get his feet outside of the vehicle before passing out.

The Bauer Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Kittanning is handling funeral arrangements, which were incomplete this morning.