R.I.P. Tyler Hilinski
In a shocking development that has shaken the entire Washington State community, Cougars backup QB Tyler Hilinski is dead at the age of 21.
According to a press release from the Pullman Police department, Hilinski was found dead in his apartment from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head late Tuesday afternoon by Pullman police officers, who were sent there after Hilinski failed to show up for a team workout earlier in the day.
A rifle laid near his body and a suicide note was found in the apartment, police said.
"We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Tyler’s passing," Mike Leach said in a statement released by the university. "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.”
In the release, WSU officials said, "Earlier tonight, the football team was brought together and informed of the tragedy. There, they were met by campus and department counseling and psychological services, including athletics’ on-staff clinical psychologist and a licensed mental health counselor, along with WSU Athletics medical team. The university will continue to coordinate and provide ongoing counseling care for all student-athletes as long as needed."
Hilinski was a redshirt sophomore during the 2017 season. He started the Holiday Bowl loss to Michigan State when Luke Falk was unable to play after undergoing surgery in early December to repair a broken bone in his left hand.
Hilinki, one of the the heroes of WSU's epic triple overtime comeback win over Boise State in Week 2, threw for 1,176 yards and 7 touchdowns during the 2017 season, completing 72.6 percent of his passes (130-179). Hilinski threw for 240 yards and three touchdowns coming off the bench against Boise. He also played extensively in the loss at Arizona when Falk was benched for ineffective play.
Hilinski was from Claremont, California, and went to high school at nearby Upland. He arrived on the WSU campus in 2015 and redshirted that season (Falk's first as the full-time starter) before appearing in four games in 2016.
"The tragic news today surrounding Tyler Hilinksi is devastating to all," WSU interim AD John Johnson said. "Tyler was a tremendous individual, great friend and teammate, and he will be deeply missed. Our hearts go out to his family and friends."
In light of the tragic news regarding Hilinksi, Washington State announced late Tuesday night that Wednesday's scheduled press conference to introduce the new Cougars athletics director has been postponed to a later date.
Per WSU, all students needing immediate assistance can contact the 24/7 WSU Crisis Line at 509-335-2159. Staff and faculty can receive assistance at the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) State toll-free number at 1-877-313-4455.
