Pullman police found Washington State University quarterback Tyler Hilinski dead in his apartment Tuesday around 4:30 p.m. according to a police department news release.
Police said after Hilinski did not attend Tuesday’s practice, officers went to his residence at Aspen Village Apartments for a checkup.
Inside, officers said they found Hilinski dead with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Police officers found a suicide note and a rifle next to Hilinski’s body.
At 9:15 p.m., WSU Interim Director of Athletics John Johnson and football head coach Mike Leach issued statements in a university news release.
“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Tyler’s passing. 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,” Leach said in the release.
In the release, Johnson said the team had been gathered and informed of the news, and counseling and mental health services had been provided to the players.
“The tragic news today surrounding Tyler Hilinski is devastating to all. Tyler was a tremendous individual, great friend and teammate, and he will be deeply missed. Our hearts go out to his family and friends,” Johnson said in the release. “The university will continue to coordinate and provide ongoing counseling care for all student-athletes as along as needed.”
The 21-year-old quarterback was listed as a redshirt sophomore for the Washington State University football team. Hilinski took over the Cougar offense intermittently in place of senior quarterback Luke Falk during the 2017 season and was expected to start next year.
The Argonaut will continue to cover this story.