Washington State Quarterback Tyler Hilinski Dead at Age 21 in Possible Suicide

Editor’s note: If you experience suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide, the following post could be potentially triggering. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741-741.

Tyler Hilinski, a quarterback for Washington State University, died on Tuesday at the age of 21. He was a sophomore at the university.

The Pullman Police Department is investigating Hilinski’s death with suicide as a probable cause. A suicide note was found after his death.

According to Bleacher Report, Hilinski played in 11 games over the span of two years and was in the running for the starting quarterback position after the current one graduates.

Hilinski’s fellow football players and others tweeted condolences and messages.

Miss you Klink ???? #RIP3
A few words as we begin to heal… pic.twitter.com/jwqwPfxw9d

— Drew Hollingshead (@WSUCoachDrew) January 17, 2018

God, let Tyler find peace. Everyone please pray for the Hilinski family tonight. Heaven received a very special person. pic.twitter.com/mx4i1MoOhK

— John Bledsoe (@johnbledsoe11) January 17, 2018

He was as kind as he was talented. As good a leader as he was a friend. The world was a better place with him in it.

He will be missed. #RIP3 pic.twitter.com/2GLt6B1k0h

— EH (@e_haff) January 17, 2018

John Johnson, the WSU interim director of athletics released a statement saying Hilinski would be deeply missed. The statement also provided local resources for those who may need support.

#RIP3 pic.twitter.com/fIrELLM0se

— Washington State Athletics (@WSUCougars) January 17, 2018

Head football coach Mike Leach also released a statement regarding Hilinski.

“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” – Coach Leach regarding Tyler Hilinski

— Washington State Football (@WSUCougarFB) January 17, 2018

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students, with 1,100 students dying by suicide each year, according to Active Minds. Though college athletes seem to have a lower incidence of suicide, football players have the highest risk out of other collegiate sports, according to a 2015 research study.

If this news is hard for you, know you are not alone — and there is help for people who are feeling suicidal. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “START” to 741741. 

If you or someone you know needs help, visit our suicide prevention resources page.

If you need support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or reach the Crisis Text Line by texting “START” to 741741.