Washington State Starting Quarterback Tyler Hilinski Found Dead in Pullman

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Police in Pullman, WA released some awful news on Tuesday night as Tyler Hilinski — the Washington State Cougars’ starting quarterback — passed away from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Per the report, officers responded to Hilinski’s apartment on Tuesday afternoon to find him deceased alongside a rifle and suicide note. Police were asked to do a welfare check after he failed to report to practice.

Just a few weeks ago, Hilinski was starting for the Cougars in their bowl game against Michigan State. Although they lost, the sophomore signal caller completed 39 of his 50 attempts and also tossed two touchdowns. For the season, he completed 72.6 percent of his throws. He was expected to be the team’s starter next season.

Washington State head coach Mike Leach released a statement following the news: “We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Tyler’s passing. He was an incredible young man & everyone who had the privilege of knowing him was better for it. The entire WSU community mourns as thoughts & prayers go out to his family.”

Fans and mourners have since flocked to Hilinski’s social media to share their condolences.

He was just 21 years old.