Washington State redshirt sophomore quarterback, Tyler Hilinski was found dead in his apartment due to an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound according to police. A suicide note was apparently found in Hilinski’s apartment as well. The news of Hilinski‘s death has left the college football world speechless. This is incredibly devastating news and our thoughts, prayers and hearts are extended to the Hilinski family and the Washington State football community as they travel through this extremely difficult time.
Hilinski’s younger brother Ryan, a high school quarterback at Orange Lutheran in California, asked on Twitter to “Please keep (his) family in your prayers tonight.”
Washington State Head coach Mike Leach made the following statement: “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.”
Hilinski made his first start in the Holiday Bowl just over a month ago where he put on a great performance, throwing for 271 yards and two touchdowns during the team’s loss to Michigan State. His most memorable moment came in Week 2 when he led the Cougars to an improbable comeback, scoring 21 points in the 4th quarter to defeat Boise State 47-44 in overtime. Hilinski threw for 240 yards and three touchdowns after coming off the bench and was carried off the field by fans after his walk-off win. Hillski finished his sophomore season with 1,176 yards, seven touchdowns and seven interceptions on the season. He was the overwhelming favorite to be the Cougars’ starting quarterback for the 2018 season.
Tragically, his is the second time a PAC-12 student-athlete has passed away in the last few days. Last Saturday, Colorado lacrosse player Julie Sarcona passed away in an automobile accident at the age of 21.
If there’s one thing we want you to remember from this blog post, it’s this:
There is always another option.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, there are people who want to help.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:
Call 1-800-273-8255.
OR
Text 741741.