Washington State backup quarterback Tyler Hilinski, who was slated to be the Cougars starter heading into the 2018 season, has died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 21.
Pullman police released a statement saying that said that he was found dead on Tuesday in his apartment with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, along with a note.
Stefanie Loh on Twitter
Pullman PD has confirmed Tyler Hilinski’s demise.
Hilinski was a redshirt sophomore this season who appeared in eight games as the backup to senior Luke Falk. He passed for 1,176 yards and seven touchdowns. He started Washington State’s Holiday Bowl loss to Michigan State due to Falk’s wrist injury and completed 39 of his 50 passing attempts for 272 yards with two touchdowns.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Tyler’s passing,” Cougars coach Mike Leach said in a statement. “He was an incredible young man and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him was better for it. The entire WSU community mourns as thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
It’s beyond sad to think about a 21-year-old college student who was described as an outgoing kid who was always smiling ending his life in such a way, when his future seemed filled with promise. Despite appearances, it’s never easy to tell what’s going in on someone’s mind. It’s important that we constantly reach out to our loved ones to let them know that they are cherished and appreciated.
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As someone who has recently lost two close relatives to suicide, this news brings back many emotions for me. If you or someone you know is hurting, please take advantage of the resources out there and reach out for help.
In 2014, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. That year, there were nearly 43,000 suicides, and 1.3 million adults attempted suicide. It is the second leading cause of death in people from age 10 to age 34.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has a toll-free number, 1-800-273-TALK(8255), available to connect callers to a certified crisis center near where the call is placed.
