According to the Associated Press, Minnesota Golden Gophers linebacker Gary Tinsley was found dead in his campus apartment today. Tinsley was only 22 years old. The cause of his death was unknown.
Tinsley was unresponsive in his apartment until officials discovered he passed away. More will be found out until they find out the results from his autopsy.
"It's a very, very sad day for our football program and for our young men," Minnesota coach Jerry Kill said. "We lost one of ours today in Gary Tinsley, who I know is in a good place."
Tinsley was last seen on Thursday night watching a movie with his friends. He returned to his apartment at around 11:00 PM. The next morning, his alarm rang and it never turned off. That's when his teammate came to check, discovering that he was not breathing.
Tinsley started off his career with the Golden Gophers with some maturity problems, but boy what a young man he has become as he was set to finish his degree.
"It is always difficult to lose a member of the University family," Minnesota president Eric Kaler said in a statement issued by the school. "Gary was close to graduating from the university's College of Education and Human Development with a major in business and marketing education. In addition, he was an important part of Gopher athletics who was engaged in public service. Our thoughts are with Gary's family and everyone on campus who knew him."
The 6'1", 232-pound linebacker would finish last season second on the team in tackles with 87. He was set to become selected in this month's NFL Draft as well. It's a big tragedy for the campus. Minnesota also cancelled Saturday's practice.
"It's just weird how things work," quarterback MarQueis Gray said. "Last night, we were just texting each other and today he's gone. I guess that's just the way God works. He was a great brother, a great teammate, a great friend. I know he was a great son to his parents. I can only imagine what his parents are feeling right now.
"For myself and the rest of the team, we're very sad that this had to happen. We just need to use it as motivation to continue to stick together."
Tinsley was a fighter on the field, and I hope he keeps fighting on in heaven.
Rest in peace.
