Police: Washington State QB Tyler Hilinski dead of apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound

Police in Pullman, Washington released a statement Tuesday night that they found Washington State quarterback Tyler Hilinski dead in his apartment of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Hilinski, 21, was a redshirt sophomore who recently made his first start for the Cougars in December’s Holiday Bowl loss to Michigan State. A former 4-star recruit, he was expected to compete for the starting job next season.

Police were alerted after Hilinski failed to show up for practice on Tuesday. They found his body, along with a rifle and a suicide note in a Pullman apartment Tuesday evening. They are investigating to confirm the suspected suicide.

Stefanie Loh, a reporter for the Seattle Times who covers Washington State, tweeted about her shock over Hilinski’s death.

Washington State president Kirk Schulz also responded to the news on Twitter.

Hilinski was from Claremont, California.

More from Yahoo Sports:
Report: Maroney won’t be fined for speaking at Nassar hearing
Trump vs. athletes comparisons inspire ‘girther’ theories
In historic move, Koreas agree to joint Olympic team
Kaepernick to complete generous charity pledge