Washington State QB Tyler Hilinski dead in suspected suicide
By Nick Tylwalk
The shocking death of the Cougars QB drives home how suicide is an issue that can affect anyone.
Among the biggest tragedies that can befall a college sports program is losing a young man or woman, and it’s that much worse when the person takes his or her own life. Sadly, that’s the exact situation the Washington State Cougars are dealing with after the passing and suspected suicide of quarterback Tyler Hilinski.
ESPN reports that Hilinski was found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in a Pullman apartment. Just 21 years old, the rising redshirt junior was a big part of the Cougars’ plans and expected to start next fall.
Even sadder, the fate of Hilinski was only discovered when he failed to show up for practice, which led to police visiting his apartment for a welfare check.
Kirk Schulz, the president of Washington State, tweeted out his condolences shortly after the news was announced. He also retweeted the number for faculty and staff to seek help with the grief that is sure to follow.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hilinski family https://t.co/jvqE7hatvB
— WSU Office of the President (@WSU_Cougar_Pres) January 17, 2018
Hailing from Claremont, CA, Hilinski played sparingly in 2016 but saw action in seven regular season games in 2017, including a 509-yard, two touchdown effort (albeit with four INTs) against Arizona. He also played well in a losing effort in the Cougars’ 42017 loss to the Michigan State Spartans in the Holiday Bowl, throwing for 272 yards and two scores.
We at FanSided add our own condolences to the family and friends of Hilinski and join with college football fans everywhere in mourning the loss of a young man gone way too soon.