On Tuesday, January 16, authorities in Pullman, Washington, discovered the body of 21-year-old Washington State quarterback Tyler Hilinski, who they believe died by suicide.
According to Pullman police, Hilinski sustained a gunshot wound that was self-inflicted. A rifle and a handwritten note were recovered at the scene.
Officers were called to Hilinski's residence after he did not appear for practice that morning, police reported.
Originally from Claremont, California, Hilinski had recently completed his redshirt sophomore year with the Cougars. He joined Washington State in January 2015 following his time at Upland High School in Southern California.
Last month, Hilinski started in the Holiday Bowl matchup against Michigan State, and he was slated to become the team's starting quarterback for the upcoming season.
In a statement on Twitter, Washington State University President Kirk Schulz expressed condolences, saying, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the Hilinski family."
Student Body President Jordan Frost also tweeted: "My deepest condolences and prayers go to the Hilinski family. May God give them peace and restoration in this time," and included the university's 24-hour counseling hotline number.
According to ESPN, Hilinski's younger brother Ryan is considered a top quarterback recruit in the Class of 2019.
Detectives from the Pullman Police Department and the Whitman County Coroner's Office stated they are "conducting a thorough investigation" to determine the exact cause and manner of Hilinski's death.
